Penzance - Capital of West Cornwall

Named "Pen Sans" in the ancient Cornish language, meaning "Holy Headland", referring to the headland to the western side of the harbour on which a chapel was established by early Christians well over 1000 years ago, the town received Royal Charters for its harbour in 1512, for markets and fairs in 1592 and was formally incorporated by Royal Charter in 1614.

Since that time, it has been the main commercial centre for the entire Land's End peninsula, historically known as Penwith, and has the retail, commercial, residential and transport facilities needed for the whole area.

The town has the most westerly major harbour on the English Channel and, from there, ferry services operate to the Isles of Scilly, which lie some 28 miles beyond Lands End augmented by air services from both Penzance and Land's End.

Located in the far west of the County, Penzance is easily reached by either road or rail, with the A30 and A38 roads giving access from all parts of England, mainly by Motorway or dual-carriageway. There are direct rail links with London, the Midlands, the North and Scotland. Express coaches coaches operate to and from Penzance, as part of the national network, to all parts of the country.

In a sheltered position close to the sea, Penzance enjoys the most temperate climate of the British Isles while early spring flowers, vegetables and other produce demonstrate the mild weather conditions experienced here. Gardens, both formal and informal, provide a blaze of colour from early Spring through to late Autumn with numerous sub-tropical flowers and palm trees adding to the unique nature of the local environment.

• Penzance is a lively, friendly town with a welcoming and united community.
• The sea and beaches are clean and pollution free.
• The surrounding landscape and coastline is of national importance.
• Rich and diverse ecological resources abound in the area.
• The area is eligible for investment assistance from a wide range of funding sources.
• The Local Government Authority offers an efficient and effective planning service.
• The area has a first rate educational achievement record.
• Penwith has a vibrant, stimulating and active arts and cultural heritage.
• A wide range of sport, recreational and entertainment activities and facilities are available.
• Penzance is a safe and secure place to live, work and play.