Minack Theatre Tours and Activities

Minack Theatre featuring general coastal views and views as well as a large group of people
Minack Theatre which includes general coastal views, a coastal town and rocky coastline
Minack Theatre which includes theatre scenes and heritage elements
Minack Theatre which includes heritage elements, theatre scenes and general coastal views
Minack Theatre featuring heritage elements and theatre scenes as well as a small group of people


Find a spot on the grassy terraces and enjoy unobstructed views of the stage and sea in this remarkable outdoor theatre carved into Cornwall’s rugged coastline.

The Minack Theatre is a majestic open-air amphitheater with Romanesque qualities and stunning ocean views. The venue is carved into the rocky headland with the Atlantic Ocean providing a backdrop for the stage. Sit down on the terraced seating and watch theater under the stars.

Visit the theater’s exhibition center to find out how it grew from a garden terrace into the venue it is today. It all began in 1932, when local arts enthusiast Rowena Cade offered up her family’s land for a production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, since its views of the sea correspond with the play’s themes. Gradually, using varied means, Cade continued to convert and enlarge the site, which was used as a location for the movie Love Story.

About 20 plays are hosted here every year between Easter and autumn. If you can’t attend a performance, pay a small fee to access the site during the day. Wander around the terraces and coastal gardens, which contain interesting non-native plants.

Explore the backstage areas and walk along the stage to imagine performing in front of a crowd. Watch the actors and directors preparing and putting on rehearsals. The complex’s on-site café serves snacks and light meals, while the gift shop sells souvenirs, jewelry and plants among other items.

The theater is on the south side of Porthcurno Beach. Stroll along its sandy shores or swim in the inviting waters of the bay lifeguards patrol this stretch during summer.

Opening hours for the theater vary depending on the season and performance times, so check ahead before you go. The theater season runs from May to September annually.

The Minack Theatre is in Cornwall in the southwestern corner of England. Drive southwest from Penzance and reach the theater in around 25 minutes. Nearby attractions include Land’s End, the most westerly point of the English mainland, and the village of Sennen Cove.

Popular places to visit


Top Minack Theatre Hotel & Accommodation Deals

2 bedroom accommodation in Porthcurno

2 bedroom accommodation in Porthcurno

Porthcurno
2 bedroom accommodation in Porthcurno
Panoramic sea views overlooking the beach – on the South West Coast Path

Panoramic sea views overlooking the beach – on the South West Coast Path

Penzance
Panoramic sea views overlooking the beach – on the South West Coast Path
Trendrennen Farm B&B

Trendrennen Farm B&B

4 out of 5
Treen Street, Levan, Penzance, England
Trendrennen Farm B&B
Godrevy

Godrevy

3 out of 5
Godrevy The Old Hotel The Valley, Penzance, England
Godrevy
Compact traditional cottage - Coastal Village of Treen

Compact traditional cottage - Coastal Village of Treen

Penzance
Compact traditional cottage - Coastal Village of Treen
Corner Cottage

Corner Cottage

3 out of 5
Corner Cottage Porthgwarra St. Levan, Penzance, England
Corner Cottage
Cove Cottage

Cove Cottage

3 out of 5
Cove Cottage Porthgwarra St. Levan, Penzance, England
Cove Cottage
Three Chimneys

Three Chimneys

3 out of 5
Three Chimneys St. Levan, Penzance, England
Three Chimneys
Bosistow Farmhouse

Bosistow Farmhouse

3 out of 5
Higher Bosistow Farmhouse St. Levan, Penzance, England
Bosistow Farmhouse
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Minack Theatre

The Minack Theatre, a stunning open-air venue, showcases a vibrant theatre scene with live performances against a breathtaking coastal backdrop. Visitors can enjoy a variety of theatrical productions, making it a must-see attraction for culture lovers. Explore the rich history of this iconic location while soaking in the dramatic views of the Cornish coastline, ensuring a unique and memorable experience during your trip to Penzance.

Shopping

Only 12.9km from Minack Theatre, you can explore the Wharfside Shopping Centre, where you'll find a mix of business and family-friendly entertainment. If you're up for a drive, Trevaskis Farm is 27.4km away, offering a unique public market vibe in a charming setting.

Recreation

Take a dip in the Jubilee Pool, soaking up the sun with family vibes just 11.3km away. For a round of golf, head to West Cornwall Golf Club, located 22.5km from Minack Theatre, offering a fun outdoor experience. Unwind at Tehidy Country Park, 33.8km away, perfect for relaxation.

Adventure

Embark on an adventure at South West Coast Path Section 23 Trailhead, a scenic hiking trail located 483m from Minack Theatre, offering stunning coastal views. For water sports enthusiasts, Sennen Surfing Centre, 4.8km away, provides thrilling surfing experiences amidst breathtaking scenery.

Nightlife

At Minack Theatre, enjoy a vibrant nightlife with the Acorn Theatre's cultural performances and romantic atmosphere. For a fun family adventure, head to Grand Casino Amusements. Nearby, the St. Ives Theatre offers captivating shows, perfect for an entertaining evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Minack Theatre

Minack Theatre, a spectacular venue, offers a blend of culture and stunning scenery. Located near beautiful beaches, capes, and bays, it's perfect for travellers seeking a coastal experience. Just a short distance from the theatre, you can explore the enchanting surroundings, making your visit to the famous Minack Theatre an unforgettable adventure filled with natural beauty and artistic charm.

  • Porthcurno Beach: A stunning stretch of golden sand, Porthcurno Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Its crystal-clear waters and picturesque cliffs create a quintessential beach vibe, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and beach games.
  • Pedn Vounder Beach: Known for its nudist-friendly policy, Pedn Vounder Beach is a secluded gem that allows for a liberating experience. With breathtaking views and soft sands, it’s a perfect getaway for those seeking a more natural beach experience.
  • Land's End: Famous for its dramatic cliffs and stunning scenery, Land's End showcases the rugged beauty of Cornwall. Offering breathtaking coastal walks and panoramic views, it's a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Best time to go to Minack Theatre

The best time to visit Minack Theatre can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Minack Theatre falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Minack Theatre falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.8°F (9.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May53.6°F (12.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August62.1°F (16.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
September60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
November52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Minack Theatre

To save money on your trip to Minack Theatre, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February or November, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals on Tuesdays, the least expensive day to stay. Use Expedia’s search tool to find eco-friendly options and package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for added savings. Keep an eye out for free activities in the area and consider walking to explore the scenic surroundings without incurring transport costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Minack Theatre are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Minack Theatre is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Minack Theatre is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Minack Theatre is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Minack Theatre hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.