Helston
Cornwall Beaches > The Lizard and Falmouth > Cornish towns > Helston
Helston is perhaps most famous for it's 'Furry' or 'Flora' Dance held on the 8th May (unless it's a Sunday of course!). On Flora Day the streets are thronged with thousands of visitors and there's a carnival atmosphere all day and into the night.
Helston was granted it's charter in 1201 and was originally a thriving port town. However, as the river silted up over the years the port gradually ceased to be. Where the river joined the sea is now Cornwall's largest freshwater lake, seperated from the sea by Loe Bar.
More about the town can be found out in the museum which is free.
Close to Helston is Porthleven, a charming fishing harbour and world class surf break. Praa Sands is the nearest beach with a mile of sand and all year lifeguards.
The beaches...
Local links
Helston | Helston hotels | Helston cottages
Creftow Gallery - Creftow is an artists co-operative of over 20 members based in Helston and situated opposite the Folk Museum.
Goonhilly Craft Shop and Licensed Tea Room - Goonhilly Craft Shop & Tea Room is a well established, family run business located at the heart of the Lizard Peninsula on the B3293 Helston to St. Keverne road, ½ mile north of Future World @ Goonhilly. If you visit the satellites, call in to see us too
Helston Farmers' Market - Largest farmers' market in Cornwall with over 30 stalls of good qyality, locally produced food. Indoors.Tasters, music, disabled access. Ample parking. Open 1st Saturday of every month (except Feb) 9.30-1.30 Cattle Market Building boating Lake Helston
Helston Flora Day - 1,000s take to the streets of Helston to watch dancers of the Furry Dance in a procession through the town. Celebration held on the 8th of May each year
Poldark Mine - Located in the picturesque Wendron Valley, close to Helston, Poldark Mine has free admission to the main site and offers something for all the family
The Cowhouse Gallery - The Cowhouse is an artist run Gallery exhibiting a variety of paintings, photography, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, wood turning, textiles and leather work by its 14 members in residence. Located in the beautiful coastal village of Perranuthnoe between Marazion and Helston off the A394.
Trevarno Estate - Trevarno is a historic Cornish Estate near Helston, Cornwall. Explore its magnificent gardens and grounds, organic skincare and handmade soaps workshops