Examine artists’ depictions of fishermen and harbour life in the 19th and 20th centuries in this stately house set in a stunning park.
Penlee House Gallery and Museum displays work by local artists, including those who were part of the acclaimed Newlyn School art colony at the turn of the 20th century. Study the works hanging in its galleries within the majestic Penlee House and wander around the pleasant Penlee Park.
Discover more about the history of Penlee House, which was the home of the affluent Branwell family in the second half of the 19th century. After World War II, the house was purchased to become a war memorial, before opening as a museum in 1949.
Peruse paintings from the collection of Newlyn School pieces at the gallery. Learn more about the typical features of this artistic movement, which emphasises natural light and harbour life.
Among the standout artworks in the gallery’s collection is The Rain it Raineth Every Day by Norman Garstin. The painter lived beside the park for many years and crafted this painting depicting a rainy day in Penzance in 1889. Note how the figures in the work shield themselves from the rain as they traverse the promenade by the ocean.
Browse the historical displays in the museum section of the complex. These displays focus on local archaeological discoveries and contain items such as Neolithic arrowheads and ancient pottery fragments.
Relax on one of the outdoor terrace seats at the Orangery, where you can order coffee, cakes and light meals. Enter the shop to browse the various souvenirs on offer.
Explore the surrounding Penlee Park and look for sub-tropical plants in the Memorial Garden. Don’t miss the sensory garden, which is designed to appeal to all the senses. Take the kids to the children’s play area.
The museum and gallery is open Monday to Saturday year-round. The galleries regularly close in between exhibitions so check ahead before you visit. Adults must pay an admission fee children enter for free.
Find Penlee House Gallery and Museum in the centre of Penzance, beside the Penzance Tennis Club, Penlee Park Open Air Theatre and the local soccer club’s field. Use local buses to get here or drive and find parking at Penlee House parking lot on Alverton Street.
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