The Cornwall Blog

Photo by John Hersey The start of March saw the newly renovated Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery open its doors. Located in the heart of Truro, Cornwall's oldest museum gallery has just undergone a £2.3 million refurbishment, adding a gallery with over 500 artworks. Founded in 1818 by the Royal Institution of Cornwall, the space exists to tell the many stories of our culture-rich county. Though it's not only Cornwall is on display, there are over a million artefacts from all over the world. The mineral exhibition has been a recent draw, but now The Nature Gallery too has had an update with interactive displays depicting landscapes and wildlife from all over Cornwall.  The new gallery will mean you will be able to see art in all kinds of styles, from German, Italian and Dutch renaissance to English landscapes and of course the famous Newlyn schools and the modernism that thrived in St Ives with it's world-famous light.  As well as the permeant collection there will be new ar...

It is hard to miss the history of Cornwall, from tall ships and smugglers to tin mines and satellites - its all here. Every little town it seems has a museum to boast, perfect for a rainy day or for the generally curious. In my home town of Lostwithiel we have history in spades. Our ruin of Restormel Castle, the Duchy Palace once home of the Black Prince and even our tranquil river, a very long time ago, was the scene of tall ships and bustling commerce making Lostwithiel an important place, in fact the capitol of Cornwall!  The two roomed museum in the heart of town does a wonderful job of exploring the many layers of this little town and it got me thinking about what might be the best museums in Cornwall to see.  Let's go big first, well put together and interactive, the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth has plenty to captivate and inform, a great place for all the ages. Currently focusing on a pirate theme, kids will love diving into the history of Cornwall's checkered...

I thought this was a brilliant idea when I first saw it, and it still feels worth sharing. Wheal Martyn Clay Works, near St Austell, has worked to make visits more welcoming for people who may prefer a quieter, less overwhelming museum experience. A calmer way to explore Wheal Martyn’s relaxed sessions are designed for adults and children who may find busy public spaces difficult, including autistic visitors, people with anxiety and anyone with sensory needs. They offer a chance to explore at a quieter pace, with hands-on objects, sensory-friendly activities and trails. The museum also has sensory bags, an easy-read guide, BSL clips and quiet places around its large outdoor site. Carers are admitted free, and sensory markers around the grounds highlight places that can be explored through sight, sound and touch. It is worth checking the current arrangements before travelling, as session dates and activities may change. Discover Cornw...