Our Guide To Penzance

This month we're planning our summer holidays, and this year it's all about the stay-cation. We've given you our secret guide to Brighton, and now we're heading west, all the way to Cornwall.

Our ever so lovely (and Cornish) photographer Tim is from the wonderful Penzance, whose giving us the scoop on all his favourite places for you to visit this summer.

The number one must see. Only recently re-opened, the art-deco lido is the perfect place to while away an afternoon in the sun. Perfect for a swim and splash or somewhere to take some time to chill our with a good book.

If you're in the area at the right time of year and to have one really special evening I'd recommend booking tickets for a trip to the Minack Theatre. You'll never experience a performance in more unique surroundings and if you have the time beforehand walk down to the stunning beach of Porthcurnow at the base of the cliffs that house the theatre. And only a mere 6 miles out of Penzance.

A swift walk along the promenade, just pas the pool, head in the direction of Newlyn. A busy, still working fishing village. Steeped in history and home to one of my favourite art gallerys. Once home to the 'Newlyn school of Artists' between 1880 and 1840, one of the best know being Stanhope Forbes. The perfect place to lose yourself for a few hours.

Back to Penzance and for a special meal you have to try 'The Bay'. A great (and scrummy) menu and some excellent Cornish wines to complement the dishes. Not cheap but come on 'you're worth it'.

Famous among the locals. The go-to no frills ice cream parlour that offers the best homemade ice cream in the whole of Cornwall. Make sure you order a double tum with lashings of clotted cream on top and spend the rest of the day with a smile on your face. YUM.

After you've enjoyed your dip at the lido, stroll along chapel street for lots of places to eat... one of which is The Turks Head, claiming to be the oldest pub in Penzance.

Our partner for the month of July have a hotel tucked away in the old quarter of Penzance. A refurbished historic Georgian house, this boutique hotel is fun and friendly with the comfiest beds around. They have 17 bedrooms (each completely different) and 2 apartments. It's a the best base for exploring Cornwall.

Plus... they have a wonderful restaurant The Cornish Barn if your peckish after a day of adventures.