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Penzance, the westernmost major town in Cornwall, is famous for its mild, almost subtropical microclimate and its stunning location overlooking Mount’s Bay, with views of the iconic St Michael’s Mount. This historic port town is defined by its elegant Georgian architecture and its charming artistic community.
The town's unique centrepiece is the magnificent Jubilee Pool, a huge Art Deco lido right on the seafront. You can stroll through the exotic flora of the Morrab Gardens, explore the historic Chapel Street with its eccentric blend of shops and pubs, or use the town as a base for visiting spectacular local sites like the Minack Theatre. Penzance offers a friendly, warm welcome and an unforgettable taste of West Cornish life.
The best hotels in Penzance are concentrated along the seafront or in the historic streets leading down to the harbour, offering easy access to the town’s charm.
The Seafront and Promenade area is the ideal choice for first-time visitors. Staying here places you next to the Jubilee Pool, the main beach, and provides stunning views across Mount’s Bay towards St Michael's Mount. This area offers a mix of large hotels and traditional guesthouses.
For a historic and atmospheric base, the area around Chapel Street and the Harbour is highly recommended. This district is full of unique pubs, independent boutiques, and historic architecture, offering a central and vibrant atmosphere that is just steps from the seafront.
For those prioritising transport links, the area around Penzance Train Station is very convenient, with hotels here offering the best access for arriving and departing, and only a short walk to the main town attractions.
Penzance is served by Penzance train station, which offers excellent rail links across the UK. The nearest major airport is Newquay Airport (NQY), with onward travel via rail or bus. The town centre is highly walkable, and the local bus service is essential for visiting nearby coastal villages and the Land's End area.
To find the most competitive hotel rates in Penzance, you must avoid the peak Cornish summer season, which sees prices surge from July to September due to high demand for coastal stays.
For significant savings, plan your visit for the winter off-season, particularly the months of December or January, when average rates are at their lowest. A unique factor to watch out for is that many smaller guesthouses and B&Bs in Penzance offer a significant discount for a Sunday night stay, as the main weekend tourist traffic has left. By being flexible with your arrival day, you can secure a much more affordable rate.