A historic town in Cornwall described as a "little rougher round the edges" than its more well-known neighbour could be a good option for your summer getaway. Penryn is around one mile north-west of Falmouth which is one of Cornwall's most popular towns.

If you're looking to avoid some of the crowds that can emerge in Falmouth during the peak months of the summer, then Penryn could be worth a visit. Despite being quieter, the market town on the banks of the Penryn River still has plenty of things to offer and is close to many other spots. The town, which is famous for its cobbled streets, boasts a number of cafes, restaurants, shops and a charming harbour area.

There is also the Penryn Museum and while Penryn doesn't have a beach itself, there are plenty nearby that are worth visiting.

If you have a car, then Falmouth - where there is a wider range of things to do - is only around a 10 minute drive.

Penryn was last year recognised in The Sunday Times' Best Places to Live in 2025 guide.

It described Penryn as being a "little rougher round the edges than neighbouring Falmouth," though judges emphasised they were looking for "thriving locations with a strong sense of community" over well-known destinations with expensive property.

Penryn's "energy, creativity and community" were highlighted as key factors behind its selection, CornwallLive reported.

The Sunday Times also considers it ideal for "endless adventures", boasting "all kinds of community groups".

The experts said: "Every old workshop, boathouse or ope - as the back alleys are known here - seems to be home to a local craftsperson or entrepreneur up to something forward-looking and fascinating, whether it's a pottery studio, an art gallery, a yoga studio, or the Cornish Poetry Library."