Towns of Cornwall – Penzance

The ancient market town and fishing port of Penzance is the main town for the west of Cornwall, situated on the attractive Mount’s Bay, it is about 10 miles from Land’s End in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Deriving its name from the Cornish for “Holy Headland” (Pensans), Penzance has been important over the centuries for fishing, mining and agriculture and received its 1st Royal Charter in 1512. With the decline in the fishing industry during the late 20th century, tourism has become more important for the town, with visitors attracted by the beautiful scenery and the local attractions such as St Michael’s Mount, Land’s End, the ancient tin mines, and Trengwainton Gardens. Penzance is situated just off the A30. Penzance Map.