A LOCAL'S GUIDE TO WEST CORNWALL

There’s a unique beautiful wildness to West Cornwall— it’s a place where granite cliffs drop into turquoise seas, fishing villages cling to the coastline, and the weather keeps you present with its sudden shifts from golden sun to windswept rain. It’s at the edge of England, the end of the line, and yet it feels like the beginning of something — slower, simpler, more elemental.

It’s here that photographer and filmmaker Katy Lawrence calls home. After years of city living, Cornwall’s untamed beauty drew her back to the rhythm of sea and soil, where days are marked by the tides, seasons, and the changing light. Through her work, she captures not just the landscape, but the way of life it inspires: quiet, grounding, and deeply nourishing.

Whether you come for a weekend, or a long walk along the South West path. Cornwall offers a rare gift — a chance to breathe deeper, notice more, and let time slow down.

PLACES TO STAY:

The Artist Residence on Chapel Street, Penzance, a street filled with independently run antique and vintage shops.

PLACES TO EAT:

Go get coffee from Joel at The Roundhouse, Penzance. He makes the best focaccia sandwiches and there’s always a seat outside in the sunshine, to watch the world go by.

Eat at 45 Queen Street, Penzance. The space is inspiring and the food and drinks are delicious.

In the village of Treen, 20 minutes from Penzance, you’ll find a small café selling delicious sandwiches & coffee. The surrounding cliffs provide incredible coast path walks.

Eat plates of fresh fish at Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar in the traditional working harbour of Newlyn, a 15 minute walk along the Penzance Promenade.

Finish off with an ice-cream at Jelberts, just next door.

PLACES TO GO:

Sennen Cove – A stunning mile of white sands with a gentle beach break perfect for long boarding or just paddling around under a golden sunset.

Walk the South West Coast Path, anywhere from Penzance, towards Lands End and around to St Ives. The views are stunning and you’ll find beautiful white sand and turquoise lagoon coves along the way.

HOW TO GET THERE FROM LONDON:

Take a 5 hour train from London Paddington all the way to Penzance at the end of the line. The train can go no further. You are at the end of the world and it is magical.

LOCAL TIPS:

Here’s a little secret: Most people visit Cornwall in high Summer – July & August, but the best time of year in Cornwall is May & June. The water is colder, but the beaches are often empty and the cliffs and coast path are covered in beautiful wildflowers. There is no better time to visit.