Helston

Ancient standing stones dot the landscape around this former mining town, where the famous Flora Dance still winds through narrow streets each May. Helston sits at the heart of the Lizard Peninsula, that dramatic finger of land pointing south into the Atlantic, making it a proper base for exploring Cornwall's most southerly reaches.

The town itself keeps busy with market days and local life, though it's really what lies beyond that draws visitors. Kennack Sands stretches for miles along the eastern coast - a sweeping arc of golden sand that's never as crowded as Cornwall's north coast beaches. The Lizard - Caerthillian National Nature Reserve protects rare heathland where choughs wheel overhead and wild ponies graze.

Driving south takes you to Kynance Cove, easily one of Cornwall's most spectacular viewpoints. Serpentine cliffs plunge into turquoise water, while Sea View offers equally dramatic panoramas without the tourist coaches. The peninsula's tip holds secrets too - Predannick Anti-Aircraft Battery tells wartime stories, while St. Rumon's Church stands in atmospheric ruins.

Helston's position means you're never more than twenty minutes from either coast. The A394 connects directly to Penzance, while smaller roads thread through villages where churches like St Mary and The Lizard Chapel mark ancient settlements. For golfers, Sea Acres 9 hole course provides clifftop rounds with Atlantic views.

Staying at nearby parks makes perfect sense - you get countryside peace while remaining close enough to nip into town for supplies or that essential Cornish pasty.