Living Cornish Stories

Free museum reveals a fascinating insight into the lives of Cornwall’s residents.

Few places bring together the everyday stories of Cornwall with the breadth and immediacy found at the Museum of Cornish Life. Occupying Helston’s former market buildings, the museum holds a collection of around 40,000 objects that chart the lives, work, customs and creativity of Cornish communities. Farming tools, photographs, costumes, household items and archaeological finds all contribute to a picture of Cornwall that feels vivid and recognisable, shaped by generations of people whose experiences helped define the county.

This summer, visitors have an added reason to step through the doors. A special costume exhibition explores the lives behind the garments, revealing personal stories that stretch across different chapters of Cornish history. Among them are the clothes worn by a firefighter involved in the Torrey Canyon clean-up and a Flora Day dancer whose attire speaks of one of Cornwall’s most cherished traditions. The exhibition demonstrates how clothing can preserve memory, carrying traces of work, celebration and community long after the moment has passed.

Families visiting during the school holidays will find plenty to occupy curious hands and minds. Free drop-in craft workshops take place every Monday afternoon from 1pm until 3pm and every Thursday morning from 10am until noon, providing opportunities for children to make, create and engage directly with the museum’s themes. The sessions continue the museum’s long-standing commitment to learning through participation, encouraging visitors to discover Cornwall’s heritage through experience as much as observation.

The programme reaches a high point on Saturday the 25th July with the Cornish Summer Fair, a free celebration of Cornish language, music, dance and local produce. Performances, stalls and demonstrations will fill the museum with activity, creating an occasion that reflects the traditions and talents represented throughout the collection.

Open Monday to Saturday from 10 am until 4pm and free to enter, the Museum of Cornish Life offers an engaging day out that connects visitors with the people, customs and stories that continue to shape Cornwall today.

Museum of Cornish Life
01326 564027
www.museumofcornishlife.co.uk