History and Culture
Steeped equally in custom, tradition and legend, Cornwall’s historic and cultural backdrop is as vast as it is varied.
Pendra Loweth is the perfect base from which to discover the vibrant, artistic port of Falmouth with its nautical roots, stately country houses, forts and castles, and a rich diversity of art galleries and exhibitions.
Pendennis Castle
Built by King Henry VIII to defend the port of Falmouth, Pendennis Castle is an impressive granite fortress perched on a headland.
The castle offers spectacular 360 degree views of Falmouth bay, harbour and town, as well as interactive displays demonstrating the evolution of Pendennis from its origins to its final use during the Second World War. Check the events schedule for seasonal updates.
Link to website
St Michael’s Mount
One of the country’s most famous landmarks, this part Benedictine priory, part embattled castle is still the home to the St Aubyn family.
Commanding the dramatic sweep of Mounts Bay, St Michael’s can be reached either by boat at high tide, or on foot via the causeway at low tide. The museum and film show gives an insight into the islanders and their lives.
Link to website
Minack Theatre
Cut into the rock on the cliffs above Porthcurno, this open air theatre has what is arguably the most beautiful and dramatic backdrop of any stage anywhere.
Panoramic ocean views give all of the Minack’s productions an extra magic that simply must be experienced. Visit during the day to watch a weekend matinee and learn about the theatre’s history, or sample the drama of an open air performance by night.
Link to website
St Mawes Castle
St Mawes is the sister stronghold to Pendennis Castle and the best preserved of King Henry VIII’s coastal fortresses. Located across the Fal Estuary, the two structures formed an impressive defense against the threat of French and Spanish attack.
The clover-shaped embattlement holds the most ornate interiors of any of King Henry’s shore side castles, complete with Latin carvings and inscriptions.
Link to website
Royal Cornwall Museum
Located in the heart of Truro, this fascinating museum holds a diverse collection of historical artefacts, art and relics of nature.
Focusing on Cornish history, the exhibits reveal the ways the county has changed over time to become what it is today. The museum also features a range of exclusive guest exhibitions, check the website for the latest displays.
Link to website
Penlee House Gallery
Penlee is home to a range of changing art exhibitions that focus mainly on well-known artists from the Newlyn School and the Lamorna Group.
The collections are displayed within an elegant Victorian house with surrounding gardens.
There is even an open air theatre that shows performances during the summer months, please see the website for more information.
Link to website
Princess Pavilion
Princess Pavilion is the year-round entertainment centre in the centre of Falmouth, featuring top names and top shows from rock to reggae, metal to jazz.
Take a look at the website for the latest listings in the programme, you'll find music for all musical tastes plus drama, variety, festivals and more. The free summer entertainment programme includes silver bands from the bandstand.
Hall for Cornwall
Located in the centre of Truro’s Lemon Quay, the Hall for Cornwall theatre has a full programme of shows, exhibitions and events all year round. There’s something for everyone, from operas to orchestras, live comedy to live music, and ballet to tribute bands.
See the website for the latest upcoming shows.
Link to website
Bodmin Jail
Explore the cells, gallows and museum of Bodmin Jail for an insight into the life of a an 18th Century prisoner. As a working prison until as recently as 1927, the jail was the last county prison in Cornwall.
The full licenced lounge and dining room serves hot and cold meals, cream teas and traditional roast lunches on Sundays.
Link to website
