Zennor Cornwall
A ruggedly beautiful Cornish village famed for its dramatic coastline, ancient legends, and lively folk music pub.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Zennor Cornwall
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A ruggedly beautiful Cornish village famed for its dramatic coastline, ancient legends, and lively folk music pub.
"Zennor is a small place but it’s packed with history, legends, and outstanding views."
Sturdy Footwear is Key
Coastal paths can be uneven. Waterproof boots are essential for exploring Zennor's wild beauty. :athletic_shoe:
Book Pubs & Stays Early
The Tinners Arms is popular! Reserve tables and accommodation in Zennor well in advance. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Zennor Coastal Path
Zennor Head
Dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and breathtaking views await on this iconic stretch of the South West Coast Path.

The Tinners Arms
Zennor Village
A historic pub buzzing with atmosphere, live folk music, and local ales. A true taste of Cornish hospitality.

St. Senara's Church
Zennor Village
Home to the legendary Zennor Mermaid carving and a sanctuary of peace with ancient charm.

Zennor Quoit
Near Zennor
An impressive Neolithic burial chamber offering a glimpse into ancient history and panoramic moorland vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Coast
Dive into Local Lore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sturdy Footwear is Key
Coastal paths can be uneven. Waterproof boots are essential for exploring Zennor's wild beauty. :athletic_shoe:
Book Pubs & Stays Early
The Tinners Arms is popular! Reserve tables and accommodation in Zennor well in advance. :calendar:
Embrace the Mermaid Legend
Listen for tales of the Zennor Mermaid at St. Senara's Church. It's a magical part of the village's charm. :sparkles:
Check for Folk Music
The Tinners Arms often hosts lively folk music sessions. Check their schedule for an authentic experience. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
Sturdy Footwear is Key
Coastal paths can be uneven. Waterproof boots are essential for exploring Zennor's wild beauty. :athletic_shoe:
Book Pubs & Stays Early
The Tinners Arms is popular! Reserve tables and accommodation in Zennor well in advance. :calendar:
Embrace the Mermaid Legend
Listen for tales of the Zennor Mermaid at St. Senara's Church. It's a magical part of the village's charm. :sparkles:
Check for Folk Music
The Tinners Arms often hosts lively folk music sessions. Check their schedule for an authentic experience. :musical_note:
Pack for All Weather
Cornwall's weather is famously changeable. Layers and a waterproof jacket are a must for Zennor. :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Zennor's stunning natural beauty, particularly its dramatic coastal paths and wild landscapes. The historic Tinners Arms pub is a major draw for its atmosphere and live folk music. Some find the village very remote with limited amenities, and the weather can be a challenge.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zennor is best reached by car, located off the B3306 coastal road between St Ives and Pendeen. Parking can be found near the village centre and at Zennor Head. Public transport options are limited; local buses may run but check schedules carefully.
While buses do serve the Zennor area, they are infrequent. It's highly recommended to have a car for flexibility when visiting Zennor and exploring the surrounding Cornwall region.
A car offers the most freedom to explore Zennor and the stunning Penwith peninsula. For those without a car, consider local taxi services or pre-booked tours that include Zennor.
There are car parks available in Zennor village, often near The Tinners Arms, and at Zennor Head for coastal path access. Be aware that parking can fill up during peak season.
Yes, you can walk to Zennor from St Ives via the South West Coast Path. This is a scenic but challenging walk, typically taking several hours and requiring good fitness.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Zennor itself is a village and its surrounding natural attractions like the coastal path and Zennor Quoit are free to access. There are no entry tickets required for the village or most of its historical sites.
St. Senara's Church is generally open during daylight hours for visitors to explore its historical features, including the famous mermaid carving. It's advisable to check local listings for any specific service times.
Access to Zennor Head and the coastal path starting from there is free. Parking at the Zennor Head car park may incur a small fee.
While not always advertised, local guides or historical societies may offer tours, especially focusing on the Zennor Mermaid legend or D.H. Lawrence's time there. Inquire at The Tinners Arms or local tourist information.
It is highly recommended to book a table at The Tinners Arms, especially for evening meals or during weekends and peak season, as it's a very popular spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Zennor Coastal Path for stunning views, the historic Tinners Arms pub for atmosphere and music, St. Senara's Church with its mermaid legend, and the ancient Zennor Quoit.
Zennor is a walker's paradise, offering sections of the South West Coast Path with dramatic cliffside trails and gentler moorland walks. The path from Zennor to St Ives is particularly popular.
Families can enjoy the coastal walks (with supervision), the stories of the Zennor Mermaid, and the welcoming atmosphere of The Tinners Arms. However, the rugged terrain requires caution.
The legend tells of a mermaid who fell in love with a local man, Trugoy, and lured him to the sea. Her story is famously depicted in a carving within St. Senara's Church.
Zennor is a small village and has limited shopping facilities. You'll find essentials and local crafts, but for a wider selection, it's best to visit nearby St Ives.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The primary dining and drinking spot is The Tinners Arms, a historic pub offering traditional pub fare and local ales. For more options, you'll need to travel to nearby St Ives.
The Tinners Arms serves classic pub food, often featuring local Cornish produce. Expect hearty meals, Sunday roasts, and a selection of local beers and ciders.
The Tinners Arms typically offers vegetarian options on its menu. It's always best to check their current menu or call ahead to confirm specific vegan or dietary requirements.
While The Tinners Arms is known for its lunches and dinners, some accommodation providers in Zennor may offer breakfast. Check with your specific B&B or cottage.
Dining at The Tinners Arms is generally in line with typical pub prices in Cornwall. It's considered good value for the quality and atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic coastal cliffs along the Zennor path, the ancient stones of Zennor Quoit, the charming village itself, and the iconic Tinners Arms pub. Golden hour offers stunning light.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture distant sea birds. A sturdy tripod is useful for low light or long exposures on the coast. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the sea.
While specific Zennor photography workshops are rare, many landscape photography tours of Cornwall include this stunning region. Keep an eye on local art galleries or photography groups.
Sunrise and sunset (golden hour) provide the most dramatic light for coastal and landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the details of the village and church.
Photography is generally permitted inside St. Senara's Church, but always be respectful of worshippers and any posted signage. The mermaid carving is a popular subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While dining options are limited to The Tinners Arms, it's generally family-friendly and offers hearty meals. Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks for walks, as amenities are scarce. The Zennor Quoit offers a glimpse into ancient history that can spark curiosity. Remember to dress for unpredictable weather, as a sudden shower can dampen spirits if unprepared.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
Key routes include the walk to St. Ives or the exploration around Zennor Head. Pack waterproof hiking boots, layers of clothing, and plenty of water and snacks. The Zennor Quoit provides a fascinating detour into the moorland, offering a different kind of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
🎶 Music & Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the pub, the village's rich history and folklore, particularly the Zennor Mermaid legend, offer a deep dive into local culture. Visiting St. Senara's Church is essential to connect with these stories. The area also has a history of inspiring artists, with exhibitions sometimes held locally.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Zennor Mermaid
The story has captured imaginations for centuries, influencing local folklore and attracting visitors keen to connect with this mystical tale. The atmosphere in Zennor, particularly around the church and the coast, still feels imbued with this ancient legend, making it a place of enchantment and mystery. Exploring the coastline near Zennor Cove is often done with a sense of wonder, imagining the mermaid's song echoing on the waves.
Exploring Zennor's Coastal Path
Walkers can enjoy the wild, remote feel of this part of Cornwall, with opportunities to spot seabirds and enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery. The path from Zennor towards St Ives is particularly popular, offering a challenging yet rewarding trek. Remember to check tide times and weather conditions before setting out, as the coast can be unpredictable.
Beyond the main coastal path, there are also inland routes that meander through moorland and offer a different perspective of the Zennor landscape. These quieter paths can lead to ancient sites like Zennor Quoit, providing a more tranquil experience away from the immediate coast.
The Tinners Arms: A Historic Hub
The pub is renowned for its lively folk music sessions, often featuring bagpipes, fiddles, and whistles, creating an unforgettable ambiance. It's a fantastic spot to enjoy a pint of local ale, sample traditional Cornish food, and mingle with friendly locals. Booking is highly recommended, especially during peak times, to secure a table and experience the vibrant evening scene.
Whether you're seeking refreshment after a coastal walk, a hearty meal, or an evening of traditional music, The Tinners Arms offers a warm welcome and a genuine taste of Zennor life. It's a place that embodies the spirit of this charming Cornish village.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit