Things to Do on Summer Evenings in West Cornwall

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by: lw
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Word Count: 472
Date: Thu, 20 May 2010 Time: 4:12 AM
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West Cornwall is a popular summer destination and is well known for its fantastic coastline and warm weather. Yet, when it comes to getting out and about during the evenings, much of the area's more unique and special side comes out to play - and whether you prefer taking quiet strolls around the coast or watching theatre or live music, the westernmost tip of the country has plenty to offer.

Eating out in St Ives
St Ives may be something of an arts hub, but it is also famed for being something of a culinary centre for West Cornwall. Unlike many of the county's other coastal towns, St Ives continues to have a harbour that bustles with fishermen bringing in the latest catch - and to say that fish and other seafood merely informs the towns foodie offering is an understatement. Due to its success as a tourist destination all the year round, healthy competition amongst restaurateurs has seen a great diversity of eateries and options develop over the years - so whether you want traditional Cornish fayre or would prefer something with more of an exotic flavour - or would instead like something free from fish altogether, then St Ives is the place to go.

Sunsets
For those with more romantic sensibilities, there are few better places to take in a sunset than the south-westernmost tip of England. Even during the busiest months of the summer, the crowds tend to leave the most popular beaches by the early evening making it very easy to find a quiet secluded spot to take in the view. Ideally, to catch a really good sunset be sure to venture down to the beaches facing vaguely west, such as Gwithian and Sennen. Alternatively, keep to higher ground such as that found at Land's End or Chapel Carn Brea.

Acorn Arts Centre
Both traditional and contemporary music can be found in many pubs and bars in the area, but it is Penzance which tends to get the most exciting mix of touring acts. Acorn Arts Centre situated in the town centre has become well-known for its mixture of theatre, music, film and spoken words acts who have passed through including national artists such as Wild Willy Barrett and political activists such as Mark Thomas.

Minack Theatre
Following the theatre and entertainment theme, the Minack Theatre is certainly worth exploring if alfresco entertainment is of interest. Located near Porthcurno and having been established for around 80 years, the open-air theatre juts out to sea upon a granite outcrop, and offers an utterly dramatic background to the plays and performances held there. Today, both local and national theatre groups show a range of plays from June to September. Tickets sell fast and should be booked in advance.

About the Author

Sam Southern writes about Cornwall self catering and hotels in the region. For more details about staying in the area visit: http://www.killanoon.co.uk/