Charming Cornish town often ignored for more popular neighbour named among 'best in UK'

Cornwall is a top destination for Brits seeking a first-rate seaside holiday close to home. But with over 400 miles of coastline, it’s difficult to choose where in the region to centre your holiday.

That said, a new ranking has named this one Cornwall destination among the best seaside towns in the UK. Often overshadowed by its famous neighbour, this lesser-known gem is equally charming and promises “the most dramatic seaside setting in all of Cornwall”.

Penzance was the only Cornwall destination on The Times’ 2025 list of The Best Seaside Towns in the UK. Coming in at sixth place, this Cornish seaside town has long been overshadowed by St Ives which is less than a half-hour drive away. It comes after beachgoers were left stunned after a rare sea creature was spotted in St Ives..

While St Ives is considered the “jewel in Cornwall’s crown” and is often found on rankings of the best family holiday destinations and European beach spots, Penzance offers a more serene alternative.

Located on the south coast, Penzance has been getting the recognition it deserves as of late with an advancing artistic and cultural scene. The town is home to boutique hotels, a blossoming restaurant and bar scene, new galleries and innovative installations all drawing visitors to the town’s historic streets.

2024 marked the 75th anniversary of Penlee House becoming a Gallery and Museum. The estate was originally constructed in 1865 for a wealthy Penzance merchant before becoming one of the most important galleries in the UK today.

While the town is full of cultural wonders, there is no denying that its natural beauty is the primary draw. The area overlooks Mount’s Bay and the island abbey of St Michael’s Mount, creating a distinctly dramatic vista.

In addition to its top Times ranking, Penzance earned a place among the UK's seven best beach towns for 2025 in a ranking by National Geographic Traveller UK. The sheltered waters of Mount’s Bay are ideal for kayaking and paddle boarding and Sennen Beach is a beloved surf spot.

Swimming enthusiasts will also be drawn to the town’s Grade II listed Jubilee Pool, which is the UK’s largest seawater lido. First opened in 1935, the iconic Art Deco-style pool sits on the edge of the sea and offers visitors the chance to swim in its naturally heated geothermal waters.

The attraction claims its “combined system” enables the pool temperature to be sustained with a low carbon footprint. The pool is divided into three sections: the main pool, the geothermal pool, and a beginner's pool. There are also changing facilities, a café and a community space on hand.

Penzance is well worth a visit in its own right, but if you’re interested in stopping by St Ives it’s a convenient trip away. Either take the 25-minute drive or hop on one of the many trains per day that travel from Penzance straight to St Ives. The Great Western Railway ride includes one stop at St Erth but only costs £6.20 one-way.