Newlyn

Newlyn is a working fishing port that merges into the western edge of Penzance, landing more fish by value than any other port in England. The harbour is active around the clock, with beam trawlers and crabbers operating from the quay. A fish market operates most weekday mornings. The Newlyn School of painters, led by Stanhope Forbes and his contemporaries, established an artists’ colony here in the 1880s drawn by the quality of the coastal light. The Newlyn Art Gallery on New Road continues that tradition with a programme of contemporary exhibitions.

The Tolcarne Inn and the Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar are among the eating options, and a handful of shops sell locally caught fish direct from the boats. Jelbert’s ice cream, made in Newlyn since 1938, has a loyal following. The village is connected to Penzance by a continuous promenade and cycle path, and bus services run frequently between the two.

From Newlyn, the coast path heads south to Mousehole (1.5 miles) and onwards to Lamorna. To the north, Penzance station provides mainline rail connections. The Penlee House Gallery and Museum in Penzance, about a 10-minute walk, holds the largest collection of Newlyn School paintings. Ferry services to the Isles of Scilly depart from Penzance harbour, a mile east.