Stay: Artist Residence Penzance

You may have heard of the Pirates of Penzance but there is much more to this harbour town in West Cornwall. Take a dip in the UK’s largest sea water lido at the Jubilee Pool (one not to miss for all you Art Deco devotees), wander through the Morrab gardens which stretch from the town to the seafront or simply soak it all up from the consciously curated spaces at the Artist Residence. That’s assuming you’ve already ticked off the harbour and a good ol’ portion of chips the moment you arrived.

The Artist Residence is situated on the historic Chapel Street, famous for The Turkish Head (the oldest pub in the area) and more recently, an array of collective boutiques. Eccentric collections of artefacts and bold prints line the walls of this Georgian Inn. In typical Georgian style, you’ll find a warren of spaces for ultimate chill. Cosy up by the roaring log burner with your morning coffee as you conjure up your adventures ahead or mosey out to the secret terrace in the summer months.

We stayed in both the Loft and the Super Comfy Luxe rooms. In true Artist Residence style, each room is unique and full to the brim with notions of colour and explosive design. Imagine copper bathtubs, vintage furniture, rustic rugs and pitched ceilings with original beams. One thing we particularly love about AR is the mix of style with practicality. Home comforts are not skipped over here. Expect super king beds, adequate plugs sockets, radios, hair dryers, robes and slippers. Not forgetting the top tier bed linen and towels as well.

The food was also great and although not openly advertised, room service is of course offered. Nothing beats dinner in bed after a day battling coastal winds and swooping seagulls. If you do fancy the restaurant, imagine easy-going vibes and locally sourced produce. Options range from quinoa salads to steak and grilled fish. Top tip: Don’t miss out on the cocktails.

It’s also impossible not to feel that this space is the buzzing heart of the community which we loved. From late brunches with friends, to midday cocktails after shopping and the trusted go-to for freelancers alike, these spaces are a welcoming rejoice for all.

Once you are finally ready to leave the AR bubble for the day, wind through the narrow streets down to the Quay or stroll through St Mary’s Church to the seafront, taking a moment to soak up the sea view from the gardens. Head South for the fresh fish of Newlyn and Mousehole or East for the whimsical St Michael’s Mount- the choice is yours. If you opt for the latter, ensure you check tide times before you go as you can access by the cobbled causeway at low tide and only by boat at high tide. Head to The Honey pot for homemade fuel before you go, with choices ranging from scones and sandwiches to the all-important Sunday roast. They have an abundance of vegan options and champion sustainability throughout their ethos. Winner.

If you already follow us, you’ll also have seen our cove-hopping adventures from this trip. There is nothing more freeing than taking out a map and heading to unexplored pinpoints. We drove from cove to cove one afternoon and found some real gems. Our favourites included Penberth Cove, Lamorna Cove and Sennen Cove. if we had more time, we would of also have taken the boat from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly, another great option if you can fit it in.

Rock pools behind the Jubilee Pool

The Jubilee Pool

Penberth Cove

Penberth Cove

Another beautiful Cornish area to add to your list. Happy exploring!