Cornwall stands as a premier destination for Britons looking for an exceptional seaside break without venturing far from home. However, with more than 400 miles of coastline on offer, selecting the perfect spot to base your getaway can prove challenging.
Fortunately, fresh research has identified one particular Cornish location amongst Britain’s finest coastal towns. Frequently eclipsed by its renowned neighbour, this hidden treasure boasts equal appeal whilst delivering “the most dramatic seaside setting in all of Cornwall”. Penzance secured its position as Cornwall’s sole representative on The Times’ 2025 compilation of The Best Seaside Towns in the UK, reports the Mirror.
Claiming sixth position, this Cornish coastal retreat has historically lived in the shadow of St Ives, situated less than thirty minutes’ drive away.
Whilst St Ives earns acclaim as the “jewel in Cornwall’s crown” and regularly features on lists of premier family holiday spots and European coastal destinations, Penzance provides a more tranquil option.
Positioned along the southern coastline, Penzance has recently gained well-deserved attention thanks to its flourishing artistic and cultural landscape.
The town boasts boutique accommodations, a thriving dining and drinking scene, great galleries and cutting-edge installations, all attracting visitors to its characterful historic streets.
2024 marked the 75th anniversary of Penlee House becoming a Gallery and Museum – a place which was originally constructed in 1865 for a wealthy Penzance merchant before becoming one of the most important galleries in the UK today.
Whilst the town boasts abundant cultural treasures, there’s no disputing that its stunning natural landscape serves as the main attraction. The view also reaches across Mount’s Bay and the island abbey of St Michael’s Mount, making for a striking panorama.
Beyond its prestigious Times accolade, Penzance secured recognition amongst the UK’s seven finest seaside destinations for 2025 according to National Geographic Traveller UK.
The protected waters of Mount’s Bay provide perfect conditions for kayaking and paddle boarding, whilst Sennen Beach is a cherished surfing destination.
Water sports enthusiasts will also find themselves captivated by the town’s Grade II listed Jubilee Pool, which stands as the UK’s largest seawater lido. Initially launched in 1935, the celebrated Art Deco-style facility perches beside the ocean and provides guests with the opportunity to bathe in its naturally warmed geothermal waters.
The venue boasts its “combined system”, which allows the pool temperature to be maintained whilst keeping a minimal carbon footprint. The facility features three distinct areas: the primary pool, the geothermal section, and a novice pool. Additional amenities include changing rooms, a café and a community area.
While Penzance is a worthy destination in its own merit, it also serves as a handy gateway to St Ives.
You can either opt for a 25-minute car journey or catch one of the frequent trains from Penzance directly to St Ives. The Great Western Railway service includes a stop at St Erth and is priced at a reasonable £6.20 for a one-way ticket.
