Lands End

The two sections of the Coastal Footpath meet here at Land’s End, where the north coast meets the south coast and the Atlantic Ocean stretches beyond the horizon until it reaches the shores of America. This route, which covers over 500 miles along the coast from Poole Harbour in Dorset to the Bristol Channel, is the longest continuous footpath in Britain. Close to Land’s End are some of the most dramatic sections of the walkway, for those with a head for heights.

From the spectacular granite cliffs, on a clear day, the Isles of Scilly can be seen lying on that horizon. Much closer is the Longships Lighthouse, whilst about six miles south-west is the Wolf Rock Lighthouse. There is a well-known signpost here, giving distances to far away places. Visitors can have their photographs taken in this famous spot, overlooking the churning sea beneath spectacular cliffs. It is a great spot from which to watch the sun set over the sea. In spring the cliffs are rampant with wild flowers, particularly thrift, a blaze of colour against the grey of the rock. Footpaths are well-maintained and there are great views from the Dollar Cove suspension bridge.

The tourist complex features the history and heritage of Cornwall and Land’s End, with emphasis on ships and the hazards of the sea. The main exhibition is the Lost Labyrinth, an audio-visual experience encompassing everything from the lost land of Lyonesse and the legends of King Arthur to the present day exploits of the air-sea rescue service. There are tales of heroism and adventure, stories of monsters, pirates, smugglers and wreckers, and lots more, all with stunning special effects. The Labyrinth Shop sells souvenirs reflecting the Celtic legends and heritage.

The area encompasses the Land’s End Hotel, various exhibition halls, play areas and craft shops with traditional craftsmen at work. The Land’s End Cornish Sweet Manufactory is a traditional sweet factory where visitors can watch skilled sweet-makers at work and then sample the delicious results. Greeb Farm is a restored 200 year old Cornish farmstead in a spectacular setting where children can meet the animals.

In the thought-provoking Relentless Sea Exhibition, it is possible to hear the heroic tale of mankind’s struggle to earn a living from the treacherous sea. Or visitors can watch the exciting documentary of the Air Sea Rescue Services rushing to the aid of a fisherman in difficulties. This presentation was filmed in the treacherous waters just off Land’s End. There are also the “End to Enders”, tales of people who have travelled on foot and by other modes of transport from Land’s End to John O’Groats in Scotland. This exhibition covers the entire journey at a speed of 6,000 miles per hour. There are also firework displays throughout the season.
There is plenty of shopping for those who are that way inclined. The Land’s End & John O'Groats Trading Company offers a wide selection of souvenirs, gifts, books, clothing, silver ware and pewter. In the First & Last Toy Shoppe there is plenty on offer for the younger visitor. Penwith House has maritime gifts, paintings, toys and linen. It also houses the gallery Wendy Williams, artist in residence.

Food is readily available at Land’s End too. The Pasty Parlour sells traditional Cornish pasties, whilst the Cornish Pantry is open for hot and cold snacks and sandwiches. The Longships Family Restaurant and Bar serves both lunchtime bar snacks and an evening menu. Wolf Rock Burger Bar specialises in burgers, salads and snacks, whilst traditional ice cream is available at the Roskilly Ice Cream Parlour. Only a mile along the road is one of the oldest inns in Cornwall dating back to the 17th century. The First & Last Inn serves Cornish ales and freshly cooked food.

Access to Land’s End is by road along the A30 from Penzance, or along the north coast road from St Ives. There is plenty of car parking and, for those not wishing to visit the theme park, reduced cost parking is available. There is free pedestrian access to the coastal path and buses run from Penzance throughout the year and from St Ives during the summer season.

Latest attraction reviews

Average ratings:
Entertainment:

Facilities:

Value:

Lands End
Review by: Embarressed Employee on 2010-06-21 12:21:50
Show review details »
I work at Lands End and I just want to say sorry to every one who comes here, the land of dissapointment. No matter how many times the staff inform the management of problems that clearly affect the publics experience of Lands End, it falls on deaf ears. I've tried my hardest to improve the services offered and make suggestions but at the end of the day if its going to cost money, then they dont want to know. Sennen Cove is however, definatly worth visiting.

Entertainment: Facilities: Value:
Lands End
Review by: Pam on 2009-08-07 11:54:10
Show review details »
Went to Lands End today for the first time since a kid, nearly 50 years ago. So disappointed and the other reviews are spot on, the area is completely ruined by the Lands End so called attractions. With two small grandchildren in tow, so disappointing and extremely over-priced and tatty. We went in the Dr Who exhibit, that was a complete joke. This is the year 2009 and people surely expect more for their money! If only the area could be restored to the natural beauty spot of years ago. Avoid like the plague!

Entertainment: Facilities: Value:
Lands End
Review by: Tim herbert on 2009-08-07 11:54:10
Show review details »
Yeah, Lands End deserves a lot better than this, love walking there from Sennen, but that white "corporate collussus" is a money shedding eyesore, they have now even disposed of MFV Confide...best attraction with the lifeboat alongside...health and safety issues no doubt, you can tell by the bewildered look on people's faces..it's not what they expected.

Entertainment: Facilities: Value:
Lands End
Review by: Melanie on 2008-08-10 14:20:16
Show review details »
What a disappointment. Extortionate prices for very disappointing entertainment. Coast exhibition only had half of its exhibits working properly, when we complained staff v aggressive and said we couldn't have any money back (even though we never asked for this). Choice of food very limited, salads advertised but not seen. Avoid at all costs. Shame the beautiful coastline has been allowed to be be spoilt so much.

Entertainment: Facilities: Value:
Lands End
Review by: Rob Dudley on 2008-06-02 20:01:44
Show review details »
What a dissapointment.The views were obviously the main attraction but these were no more spectacular than anywhere else along the coast.I was a bit miffed at not being able to take my own picture at the actual lands end sign,the one with all the distances on.cost me £12 for someone else to do it.Oh and can someone tell me why i would want to see anything to do with dr who at lands end???? my advice is go but its not what you hoped for

Entertainment: Facilities: Value: