First and Last House

The First and Last House sits at Land's End - literally the south-westernmost point of mainland Britain where the A30 runs out of road. It's a proper working pub and guesthouse, not some themed attraction, which is half its charm. You can stand outside with a pint and look at the signpost showing distances to John o' Groats (874 miles) while coaches full of tourists mill about snapping photos. The building itself dates back centuries, all whitewashed walls and dark beams, the kind of place that feels genuinely old rather than restored to death.

Historically minded types will appreciate the weight of it - this is where travellers have stopped for hundreds of years. Families with young kids get a kick out of being at the literal end of England, even if they'll get bored after twenty minutes. The views across the cliffs are decent on a clear day, though the whole area gets rammed with daytrippers, especially July and August.

It's free to wander around outside and look at the signpost. A meal or drink inside costs the usual pub prices. Allow thirty minutes unless you're staying over - they do rooms if you want to make a night of it. The spot works well as a final stop on a coastal walk or a brief detour between Penzance and the beaches. If you're camping at Lands End Camping & Glamping just down the road, it's an easy evening walk. Worth visiting once for the novelty, but don't expect magic.