Places to stay in Penzance

Penzance is the gateway to some of Cornwall’s most iconic destinations, like St Michael’s Mount, the Minack Theatre, Land’s End and St Ives but make sure you explore the town itself before setting off on day trips. You’ll discover maritime history, quirky architecture, a vast Lido, numerous galleries and a whole host of traditional inns, cosy cafes and bistros.

As the final stop on the Great Western line, Penzance is easily accessible by train from London while local bus services connect you to nearby attractions. Visit with Sawday’s and you could make your Cornish base a romantic thatched cottage, a foodie B&B, a Georgian manor house or even a chic apartment in a bell tower with sweeping views over the harbour.

Featured places to stay in Penzance

Venton Vean - Gallery

Venton Vean

Penzance, Cornwall

 

Why visit Cornwall?

The wild beauty of Cornwall lifts the spirits and has long inspired artists from around the world. There’s something for everyone in the stunning south-west corner of England whether you’re a beach-loving family, a foodie couple or anyone who wants to explore the coastal paths, windswept moors and fishing villages.

Try paddleboarding in Falmouth Bay, cycle down the Camel Trail and go wild swimming in hidden coves before refuelling with an authentic cream tea (jam first). At Sawday’s, we’ve been building our collection of brilliant places to stay since the 1990s. They’re all run by warm and generous hosts who can’t wait to share local secrets from their unique corner of Cornwall.  

 

About our special places to stay in Cornwall

 

Why should you book with Sawday’s?

Book with Sawday’s and you’re guaranteed to stay in a place that oozes character and originality. Our team visits and inspects every B&B, inn, hotel and cottage in our collection to make sure they have the charm and creativity required for a memorable break. As an employee-owned B Corp, we apply our high standards across all aspects of the business, including our charitable trust which supports environmental causes. 

Is it worth going to Penzance?

With twice-weekly markets, an annual festival and a lively promenade, Penzance is a hub of activity but it’s also a great base for exploring Southern Cornwall. Visit Chysauster Ancient Village, one of the best examples of a Roman-British village in the country, or head out into the bay on a wildlife cruise to spot dolphins, porpoises and whales. 

What is there to do in Penzance?

Any visit to Penzance should take in historic Chapel Street, where independent shops, restaurants and cafés rub shoulders with quirky buildings like flamboyant Egyptian House and 12th-century pirates’ pub, The Admiral Benbow. Then head to the harbour to watch ferries depart for the Isles of Scilly before going for a swim in the art deco Jubilee Pool, the UK’s largest saltwater lido.

What towns are near Penzance?

Once you get to the furthest corner of Cornwall, world-famous destinations are only a short drive, cycle or bus ride away. The golden sands and galleries of St Ives are just half an hour from Penzance, while the historic fishing village of Mousehole is three miles away, down the coast. To the east, Porthleven is the place to go for seafood, surfing and the annual Food Festival.