Helston: Town History, Art and Walks by Loe Pool

When looking for hotels in Helston, you can plan your trip around different aspects of the town: its historic architecture and local heritage, contemporary art, or railway journeys and outdoor walks. The sights and routes offer a variety of ways to explore.

Town history and local traditions

The Guildhall dates from 1839 and is designed in the neoclassical style. It stands at the upper end of Coinagehall Street and regularly hosts local markets. The building also plays a part in Flora Day: most of the day’s dances begin here. The Hal-an-Tow pageant tells the story of Helston through its characters and songs.

The Museum of Cornish Life is housed in Helston’s former Market House and Drill Hall. The building was originally designed as a Market House in 1837 and retains its sloping granite floor. The collection includes agricultural objects, records of the town’s history, Cornish crafts and occupations, archaeological artefacts, items from domestic life and textiles. It also features objects relating to Henry Trengrouse’s significant life-saving inventions.

Art and events

CAST is housed in a former school building dating from the late 19th century and serves as a centre for contemporary art. Events and activities include film screenings, talks and workshops. The programme also includes art lab sessions for schools, as well as creative holiday activities for children and families. In this way, CAST connects the history of its building with a programme centred on contemporary art.

Walks and railway journeys

The Helston Heritage Trail passes through historic streets and hidden opes, sharing local stories and myths. Allow about an hour for the main route at a steady walking pace. Another option is the Loe Pool Circular: this 11.1-kilometre walking route starts and ends in Helston. As route details may be updated, check them before setting out.

The Helston Railway offers rides along a restored section of the former Great Western Railway branch line, which once connected Helston to the wider railway network. All rides start at Prospidnick. There, you’ll find a shop and refreshments in a historic diesel railcar. Free parking is available on site. Check operating information and parking arrangements before you travel.

Coronation Park and practical information

Coronation Park has a boating lake with swan pedal boats for hire, children’s play facilities, a skatepark and a café. The park has been made more accessible for wheelchair users and people with visual impairments. The car park has more than 30 spaces, including some reserved for visitors with disabilities. From the park, visitors can walk through the Penrose estate to Loe Pool and the beach.

Regular bus services connect Helston with Penzance, Hayle, Praa Sands, Porthleven, Falmouth, Redruth, Camborne and Truro; there are also numerous services to the Lizard Peninsula. Travelling by bus is another way to include Helston and these destinations in your travel plans. For specific journeys, it’s best to check the timetable.

Brewing tradition at the Blue Anchor

The Blue Anchor has a working brewery where Spingo ales are brewed using traditional recipes. The inn is said to have been operating since the 15th century. Its traditional layout, with several drinking rooms and adjoining rooms, has also been preserved. The brewing tradition and historic rooms offer a distinctive perspective on Helston’s local history.

Discover more destinations: Looe, Ludgvan, Saint Clether, Saint Eval, Boswinger, Saint Ives, Landewednack, Morval

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