Penzance

Penzance is a scenic port town on the south-west coast of Cornwall, renowned for its rich maritime history and relaxed holiday atmosphere. Planning a trip to Penzance, you will discover that getting here is possible via various means, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the English landscapes along the way. Despite its location at the edge of the United Kingdom, the town possesses excellent transport accessibility and is ready to welcome guests arriving by train, bus, or car.

Although the town does not have its own airport, reaching Penzance by air is possible through neighbouring transport hubs serving the region. The nearest arrival point for scheduled flights is the airport in the town of Newquay (NQY), located approximately 47 km from your destination.

Upon landing in Newquay, travellers can easily continue their journey to the coast using ground transport. This airport is well connected to the main road network, allowing you to cover the remaining distance to the western tip of the peninsula quite quickly.

Travelling by rail is one of the most scenic ways to reach the Cornish coast. The terminus for most routes is the historic Penzance Station, which serves as a vital transport hub for the region and receives trains from various parts of the country.

For those travelling from neighbouring towns, the journey will be quick and comfortable. Railway lines conveniently connect the town with locations such as Falmouth (34 km) and the popular resort of Newquay (47 km), allowing tourists to easily plan complex itineraries along the coast.

Bus services offer an affordable and scenic alternative for those touring the region. The trip from the town of Falmouth covers a distance of about 50 km and takes approximately 2.2 hours, allowing you to leisurely view the local landscapes from the window.

Another popular route links Newquay with your destination: a journey of about 66 km lasts on average 2.5 hours. This is an excellent option for those wishing to enjoy the views of the United Kingdom without the need to sit behind the wheel.

Travelling by car offers the freedom of movement and the opportunity to explore the Cornwall peninsula at your own pace. The road from Falmouth is quite short: covering the distance of 43 km can be done in less than an hour (about 0.9 h), while enjoying coastal views.

If you are departing from Newquay, count on a journey of approximately 52 km, which usually takes around 0.8 hours with light traffic. Travelling by private car or taxi is, perhaps, the fastest way to reach the town from nearby settlements.

Preparing for a trip to this corner of Cornwall requires considering local features to ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible. Here are some practical recommendations that will help you feel confident in Penzance.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The weather on the coast is changeable. Even in summer, it is recommended to bring a windbreaker and comfortable waterproof shoes for walking by the sea.
2. Transport. The town centre is compact and is best explored on foot. For trips to the surrounding areas, it is convenient to use local buses or a rented car.
3. Finances. The currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but a small amount of cash is useful for small souvenir shops or paying for parking.
4. Health and Safety. The town is safe for tourists. Pharmacies are easy to find in the centre, and emergency assistance can be called by dialling 999.
5. Communication. The main language is English. Locals are friendly, though they may use specific Cornish expressions, which only adds to the charm.
6. Local Etiquette. In the United Kingdom, it is customary to queue everywhere — from the bus stop to the pub. Politeness and the words "please" and "thank you" are mandatory.
7. What to Avoid. Be cautious with seagulls: do not eat while walking on the promenade, as the birds may aggressively snatch food from your hands.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to check the tide tables if you plan to walk along the beaches or visit coastal attractions where access may depend on the water level.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this amazing seaside town.