Visit Penlee House & Museum

Penlee House is a gallery, museum, cafe and shop. Situated within Penlee Park, a space to reflect and great for family visits.

Click on the links on the right to find out more.

A space for exhibitions & events

Alongside our Exhibition programme we run a variety of community events and workshops. The Newlyn School and Social history galleries change often. Find out what’s on.

Click on the links on the right to find out more.

A space to learn

Penlee House is committed to lifelong learning. We run workshops for all age groups and offer a school workshop programme.

Click on the links on the right to find out more.

A space for all

Built in 1865, as the home of the Branwell family. Penlee House is home to many paintings by members of the Newlyn School. It is also home to the Penzance Natural History and Antiquarian Society collection.

Click on the links on the right to find out more.

You can search and browse our collections online. We also have a section dedicated to the Newlyn School.

A young woman stands indoors, holding a tray with fish. She wears a dark blouse and a blue apron, exuding a determined expression. Soft, muted colours.
Current Exhibition

Making Her Mark: A Celebration of Women in Art

30 April 2026 until 27 September 2026

Exhibitions at Penlee

A programme of changing exhibitions celebrates the people and artists who lived and worked in west Cornwall during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

A young woman stands indoors, holding a tray with fish. She wears a dark blouse and a blue apron, exuding a determined expression. Soft, muted colours.

Making Her Mark: A Celebration of Women in Art


30 April 2026
until
27 September 2026
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Farmer guides two brown horses plowing a field under a cloudy sky. The scene conveys hard work and rural calmness, with birds flying nearby.
A coastal landscape painting shows rolling hills with segmented earth-toned fields, a small white house, and a deep blue sea in the background, conveying tranquillity.
A painting of a large, old brick building with narrow arched windows and a green rooftop. Several cars and small boats are parked in front, under a blue sky.

100 Years of the St Ives Society of Artists


1 February 2027
until
10 April 2027
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Sketch of three people seated from behind, facing a lined backdrop. Each has distinct hairstyles and clothing; they sit closely, suggesting camaraderie.
Harry Penhaul: Life Through a Lens & Face to

Harry Penhaul: Life Through a Lens & Face to


21 January 2026
until
18 April 2026
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Face to Face: Portraits from Penlee’s Collections
An impressionistic painting depicts a serene river flowing past trees and a quaint stone cottage. Sunlight filters through leaves, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Lamorna Birch: A Painter Laureate


15 October 2025
until
10 January 2026
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Abstract coastal scene with white houses, boats, and three figures on a stone pier. In the foreground, two fish and a bowl of pears on a table. Calm tone.

Biddy Picard: Timeless Penwith


15 October 2025
until
10 January 2026
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A person stands under an umbrella on a dark, rainy street, next to row houses. Ducks wade through puddles; a figure is visible in a window, adding a sense of solitude.
A bustling market scene depicts a man in brown clothing tending to fish on the ground, surrounded by a flock of seagulls, with quaint houses in the background.
A person sits on a wooden chair in a dimly lit room, playing a video game on a small TV. The room has a cosy, cluttered feel with a bed and various items.
A dramatic coastal scene with dark cliffs against a turbulent sea. Waves crash with force, under a cloudy, atmospheric sky, evoking a sense of power.
A serene landscape painting depicts a tranquil pond surrounded by lush green trees and bushes. The water reflects the greenery, creating a calm, peaceful atmosphere.
A vintage black-and-white photo depicts a bustling seaside scene. People in period clothing gather around a large lifeboat on wheels by the shore, with a stone wall and buildings in the background.
Welcome to  Penlee House Gallery & Museum

The Exceptional Harold Harvey


1 May 2024
until
29 September 2024
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A grayscale image of an elderly John Le Carre with white hair looking up with an expression of contemplation. He's set against a blurred background of a grid-like structure.
A pastoral scene shows people on a village path overlooking Mounts Bay. Two horses pull a cart, while children play nearby. The mood is serene and nostalgic.
A serene harbour painting features several moored boats on tranquil blue water. A stone wall and lighthouse stand in the background under a clear sky.
A serene coastal landscape painting depicts a rocky shore with gentle waves, distant cliffs, and a quaint village under a cloudy sky, evoking tranquillity.
A serene painting of two girls at a seaside cliff, one standing in a white dress and hat, the other seated in orange. The background shows a calm sea and sailboats.

Lamorna Colony Pioneers


3 May 2023
until
30 September 2023
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Illustration of a woman in a blue dress with ocean waves and fish patterns. She stands by the sea, holding a net, with boats and houses in the background. Serene mood.

Penlee Inspired 2023


18 January 2023
until
22 April 2023
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Colourful harbour scene: a blue and orange fishing boat docked, surrounded by small buildings, people walking, and rowing boats on the water, conveying a lively coastal atmosphere.

Fred Yates In Cornwall


12 October 2022
until
7 January 2023
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A group of coastal villagers on a pier, one man using a telescope. Women carry baskets, while others sit talking. The scene is calm and focused on daily life.
A pastoral scene with a dirt road bordered by stone cottages with thatched roofs. A horse-drawn cart travels the road, while children play on the grass, evoking a serene rural life.
A lively harbour scene depicts children in white dresses parading with colourful flags, while adults gather around. Sailboats and a lighthouse are in the background.
A woman in a blue jumpsuit and green headscarf operates a lathe in a busy factory, focused and determined. Workers in similar attire are visible in the background.

Laura Knight: A Celebration


17 May 2021
until
16 September 2021
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A warm, sunlit classroom with a female teacher seated at a table and several children in vintage clothes playing and interacting energetically around her.

Newlyn School Interiors


21 March 2020
until
17 April 2021
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A farmer sits on a tractor, drinking from a large canteen, with a loaded hay wagon behind him. The scene conveys hard work and a sense of refreshment.

Celebrating Work and Play:


11 January 2020
until
14 March 2020
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A group of anxious women and children dressed in 17th-century attire move in a line through a dark forest. Their expressions show fear and urgency.

Penzance Selects


23 November 2019
until
4 January 2020
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A surreal landscape features a dilapidated industrial structure with gears and beams amidst grey walls. In the background, a dark hill and muted sea create a sombre tone.
A man sits on grass near a brown horse, with a rope leash, in front of a striped red and white tent. The scene has a relaxed and rustic atmosphere.

Munnings in Cornwall


15 June 2019
until
7 September 2019
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Portrait of a woman in profile, facing right, with short brown hair and a serene expression against a dark background, wearing a white top and pink scarf.

Artists by Themselves


23 March 2019
until
8 June 2019
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Historic black and white photo of a busy cobbler workshop with numerous workers crafting leather. The scene conveys industriousness and collaboration.
A dramatic painting of a sunset with swirling grey and orange clouds. The warm glow of the sun contrasts with the dark, moody sky, conveying tranquillity.

Penlee Inspired 2018


24 November 2018
until
5 January 2019
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Abstract painting of turbulent ocean waves crashing over rocks in swirling shades of blue, green, and white. Conveys a sense of chaos and movement.

Borlase Smart: A Passion for the Sea


15 September 2018
until
17 November 2018
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A serene landscape painting depicts a tranquil stream reflecting lush green trees. Two people stand on a path near a wooden gate, with a cottage in the background.
Three women carrying large baskets on their backs walk along a sandy beach. Fishing boats and a lighthouse are visible in the background, evoking a sense of hard work and determination.
A painting depicts a cluster of old, weathered buildings with dark rooftops and tall chimneys under a cloudy sky, evoking a sombre, atmospheric mood.

David Haughton in St Just


13 January 2018
until
17 March 2018
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Six children in worn clothing are playing outside near wooden walls covered in chalk writing. The scene appears playful and historical, evoking camaraderie.

The Gibson Dynasty: Pioneers of Photography


25 November 2017
until
6 January 2018
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A serene coastal scene with fishermen by small, weathered boats. Gentle waves, rocky shore, and a misty horizon create a calm, nostalgic atmosphere.
A group of six figures in colourful, patterned costumes hold black umbrellas against an unseen force. Their exaggerated expressions convey surprise and struggle.

John Armstrong: Dream & Reality


16 September 2017
until
18 November 2017
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A group of six fishermen on a wooden boat, gazing intently across a calm sea. The scene is serene, with light clouds and distant sailboats.

Stanhope Forbes: Father of the Newlyn School


10 June 2017
until
9 September 2017
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A donkey stands serenely in a flower-dotted grassy field against a pastel sunset sky. The tone is peaceful and contemplative, evoking tranquillity.
Black and white photo of seven young girls in costumes on stage, smiling. They wear dresses with floral headbands, conveying a joyful, playful tone.

Penhaul Undiscovered


26 November 2016
until
28 January 2017
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A quaint seaside village with grey-roofed houses, a church spire, and a stone bridge. Boats float in a serene, blue harbour under a clear sky.

Wilhelmina Barns-Graham: A Scottish Artist in St Ives


10 September 2016
until
19 November 2016
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A vibrant seascape depicts a rocky coastline with lush green hills meeting the ocean. Waves crash on the shore under a clear blue sky, evoking tranquillity.
A young boy sits on the ground in an orchard, surrounded by gnarled trees. Wearing a red hat, the serene scene conveys a sense of quiet contemplation.
Abstract painting featuring wavy, flame-like shapes in vibrant reds, oranges, and greens on a neutral background, creating a sense of dynamic movement.
Abbey Slip scene at dusk, with people in a small boat and a bustling pathway. Historic buildings and a church tower overlook the calm water.

Penzance Selects


7 November 2015
until
9 January 2016
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A painting of a harbour scene featuring seven boats in calm blue water, surrounded by piers and a coastal road below. Earth-toned buildings line the shore, with St Michael's Mount in the distance.

The Bigger Picture


12 September 2015
until
21 November 2015
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Three children softly smile at puppy dogs in a barn, surrounded by hay. Warm, gentle light enhances the rustic, cosy setting, conveying innocence.

Cornish Light: Nottingham 1894 Revisited


20 June 2015
until
5 September 2015
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Two women sit in a vibrant flower garden. One wears a light blouse and blue skirt, holding a red flower, and the other wears a dark dress, admiring the blossoms.

Sons and Daughters of the Soil


28 March 2015
until
13 June 2015
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Four women are in a flower garden, bending over to pick colorful blooms. One woman stands, holding a bouquet, surrounded by a rustic fence. The scene conveys a sense of calm and pastoral beauty.
Painting of a bustling train station with people carrying luggage, trains on parallel tracks, an arched roof, and sunny landscape visible beyond. Vibrant and lively scene.

Penlee Inspired


29 November 2014
until
10 January 2015
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A cluttered artist's studio with a mannequin draped in clothes, a sketch of a nude figure on the wall, and scattered canvases and garments. The scene conveys a sense of creative chaos.

Leonard Fuller (1891 – 1973): A Sympathetic Eye


13 September 2014
until
22 November 2014
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A lively seaside parade with children in white dresses and hats marching with flags. Adults gather on a sloped street by the harbour, boats in the background.

Model Citizens: Myths and Realities


14 June 2014
until
6 September 2014
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A sepia-toned image of a large, two-story Victorian house with tall windows and ornate columns. Surrounding trees and bushes add a serene, nostalgic feel.
A vintage painting depicts a fishing boat, numbered SS113, docked on dry land. Two men stand on the left, observing. Buildings with chimneys form the backdrop. The scene conveys a nostalgic, tranquil ambience.
Fishing scene with five men hauling nets from two boats near rocky cliffs. Seagulls circle above in the tranquil setting, conveying hard work.
A miner with a headlamp sits solemnly inside a dimly lit tunnel. The earth-toned colours convey a gritty, sombre mood, reflecting the underground setting.
A woman in a green dress with a red sash reaches for golden apples in a misty orchard. The scene feels serene, with soft light and autumnal colours.
A person in a white outfit and hat rides a brown horse through a sunlit, lush forest. The scene conveys tranquillity and harmony with nature.
Abstract ceramic wall art with circular and triangular shapes in earthy tones of beige, blue, and brown. Textured surfaces convey a rustic feel.

Troika Pottery: 1963 – 1983


19 January 2013
until
9 March 2013
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Colorful flowers in the foreground with a vibrant mix of red, pink, and purple blossoms. A serene ocean and distant St. Michael's Mount under a pastel sky.
A vibrant, expressive painting depicts people dancing energetically, surrounded by vivid colours and swirling fabrics. Wine bottles and glasses are on a table, creating a lively, festive atmosphere.

Sven Berlin: Out of the Shadows


15 September 2012
until
24 November 2012
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Painting of a serene seaside scene with people on sunlit rocks. A person sketches in the background, while others explore a tide pool. A relaxed atmosphere is conveyed with warm tones and gentle ocean waves.

Dame Laura Knight RA: In the Open Air


16 June 2012
until
8 September 2012
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Two women sit under a tree in a field, one cradling a sleeping baby in a blue dress. The scene is serene, with soft, warm lighting.
Historic street scene with cobbled road, surrounded by market stalls and carts. The atmosphere is bustling. A large church tower is visible in the distance.
Three men are gathered around a checkers board in a wooden room. Two are playing, focused, while the third watches. They wear caps and appear intent.
A serene scene shows a woman in blue on a donkey holding a child, accompanied by an elder with a staff. Lush hills, a tree, and a distant village complete the landscape.
An elderly woman sits thoughtfully in a cosy kitchen, holding a teacup. She wears a bonnet, shawl, and apron. A teapot and foliage sit on the table. Her expression is contemplative.

Walter Langley and the Birmingham Boys


11 June 2011
until
10 September 2011
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Victorian scene of a rainy promenade with people holding umbrellas. A woman and child stand together, while another woman walks a dog nearby. Overcast and calm.

The Talented Garstins


2 April 2011
until
23 May 2011
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Historic photo of elephants parading on a narrow city street, led by a man on horseback. Curious children and adults follow, adding a sense of wonder.

The Marvellous Everyday


22 January 2011
until
26 March 2011
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A hand holds a letter addressed to Hotel de l'Italie in Rome. A bearded man is sketched to the side, with a vintage stamp on the letter. The drawing conveys a nostalgic tone.

Picture Post 


27 November 2010
until
15 January 2011
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Impressionistic painting of a busy harbour, with boats docked side by side. Water reflects vibrant blues and greens, creating a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Sea Change : St Ives 1914 – 1930


11 September 2010
until
20 November 2010
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A group of children walks through a rural landscape at dusk. A boy in brown plays a flute, leading the group. The mood is serene and nostalgic.

A Cornish Childhood


29 May 2010
until
4 September 2010
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A young woman in a vintage, sepia-toned portrait rests her head on her hand. She wears a patterned dress, gazing softly at the camera, evoking nostalgia.
Museum exhibit showing pottery in glass cases on wooden floors. Shelves display various ceramics like vases and bowls. The scene is calm and inviting.

West Cornwall Studio Pottery 1920 – 1980


16 January 2010
until
13 March 2010
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A vibrant assortment of art supplies, including coloured pencils, pastels, textured paper, and markers. The scene is colourful, inspiring creativity and artistic expression.

Penle Inspired 2009


5 December 2009
until
9 January 2010
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A regal woman with a crown walks in a forest, wearing a green dress and a decorated cape. A man in medieval attire follows, holding the cape. The background shows a distant castle across a lake, creating a serene, elegant atmosphere.

Utmost Fidelity: Marianne Stokes 


19 September 2009
until
28 November 2009
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A sombre scene depicts a woman sitting beside a bed where a child lies resting. A young girl stands nearby. The room is dimly lit, evoking a tender, caring atmosphere.

Brotherhood of the Palette 


20 June 2009
until
28 November 2009
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A display of various butterflies pinned on a board. Species are arranged neatly, showcasing a range of colours and patterns. Labels provide species names.

Wild Cornwall (Darwin 200)


21 March 2009
until
13 June 2009
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A painting of a young girl in profile, with short hair, gazing over a harbour. Sunlit scene with calm water and boats creating a peaceful, contemplative mood.

A Village in Focus: Newlyn 


17 January 2009
until
14 March 2009
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A giant green cat playfully peers at a small ship caught in swirling, oceanic waves. The sky is stormy, creating a whimsical yet tense scene.

A Village in Focus: Mousehole


29 November 2008
until
14 March 2009
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Two women are seated, one adjusts her striped skirt while the other sews a tutu/costume. The scene conveys a calm, intimate backstage setting with a focus on the attire.

The Magic of a Line


20 September 2008
until
28 November 2009
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A dimly lit room with three people focused around a wooden cradle. A standing woman looks on, while a couple kneels, tenderly attending to a baby. The scene feels intimate and warm.

Dawn of a Colony: Lyrical Light


14 June 2008
until
13 September 2008
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A woman in a floral dress and black scarf reads to a young girl in a hat, both seated near a sunlit window, creating a warm, serene atmosphere.
Abstract painting of five sailboats with elongated hulls and muted colours, set against a backdrop of textured blues and greys, evokes a calm, serene atmosphere.

Jack Pender (1918 – 1998)


19 January 2008
until
8 March 2008
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Three people stand in front of a large, framed landscape painting showing a coastal scene with cliffs and water. They wear gloves, smiling warmly.

Gifts Given


1 December 2007
until
8 March 2008
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A woman in a light dress sleeps peacefully on a bed, lying on her side with an arm overhead. Soft lighting and muted tones create a calm, serene atmosphere.

Dod Procter


15 September 2007
until
24 November 2007
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A beach scene with fishermen and women tending to a boat and fish on the sand. People converse and work in the background, conveying a busy, communal atmosphere.
Impressionist painting of a coastal scene with a white house, lush greenery, and boats. The scene is serene, with soft brush strokes and warm light.

Seal’s Colony


17 March 2007
until
2 June 2007
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Black and white woodcut print showing a sailboat inside a bottle, surrounded by wood grain patterns. The tone is nautical and contemplative.

Printmaking in Penwith


13 January 2007
until
10 March 2007
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Portrait of a young man with a pensive expression, wearing a white cravat and dark coat against a dark background, conveying a contemplative mood.

Richard T Pentreath (1806 – 1869)


25 November 2006
until
6 January 2007
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Abstract painting with soft blue and white hues, accented by bold strokes of red. Suggests movement and depth, evoking a soothing, dreamlike tone.
Fishermen gather around a boat, hauling in a large catch of fish in a bustling scene. The mood is industrious, with distant ships on the horizon.
Rocky beach with scattered stones in the foreground, gentle waves meeting the shore under a clear blue sky, conveying a serene and tranquil scene.
A group of children and adults stand around two large snowmen. One snowman has a license plate and a dog on top. The scene is playful and wintry.
A bearded man works in a sunlit workshop, surrounded by vintage glassware and scientific instruments, evoking a sense of historical curiosity.

Cornish Serpentine: A Cornish Industry Explored


26 November 2005
until
21 January 2006
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A vibrant harbour scene with numerous seagulls on a stone dock and flying over the water. A small fishing boat is moored, reflecting in the calm green water.
Two women stand on rocky cliffs by the sea, one sitting and gazing into the distance, the other standing with hands on her hips. A calm, contemplative scene.
A contemplative woman with blonde hair in a white slip drapes her arm over a chair, gazing thoughtfully. The subdued, introspective tone enhances the serene ambience.

Faces of Cornwall


23 April 2005
until
11 June 2005
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A vibrant, night-time scene of a merry-go-round filled with people in motion. Soft, warm lights illuminate the bustling atmosphere, surrounded by blurred figures.

Norman Garstin: Focus Show


5 March 2005
until
16 April 2005
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