Helston (Cornish: Hellys or Henlys) is a small town and civil parish in the Kerrier district of Cornwall, England, United Kingdom, at the northern end of the Lizard Peninsula. It is the most southerly town in the UK, being 3 km south of
Penzance. In 2001 the town celebrated the 800th anniversary of the granting of its Charter, making it the second eldest town in Cornwall after Marazion. The former tin-mining and cattle market town is also known for the annual Furry Dance (known locally as the Flora Dance), said to originate from the medieval period.
Economy
In recent times, with no tin mines operating in the country and no need for coining in the town, Helston has become more tourist-oriented with many bed-and-breakfasts, cafes and restaurants, public houses and specialist shops. Visitors are attracted to the area because of the wonderful local scenery, such as the Penrose walks, and the relaxing holidays available in the area. The fishing village of
Porthleven located next to Loe Bar is the nearest stretch of coast, only about 2 miles away.
Many people come to the town as a result of a posting at the nearby Royal Navy air station RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk). This naval helicopter base provides employment for a large proportion of Helston's population, both directly and indirectly.
Culture
There are several churches including St. Michael's Church, a humble church with stained-glass windows and a tall bell tower which can be heard throughout the town. In the surrounding graveyard there is a monument to Henry Trengrouse, the inventor of the rocket fired safety line - a device for aiding in the saving of lives in a shipwreck.
Helston is also the birthplace of Bob "Ruby Robert" Fitzsimmons, the first triple world boxing champion. The house where he was born and lived in Helston is still standing and is indicated by a plaque above the door.
The Helston folk museum, founded in 1949, occupies the building originally designed as the town's Market House in 1837, with two separate buildings - one for Butter and Eggs, the other the Meat Market. The exhibits are mostly concerned with Helston's agricultural and market town history.
Since 1968, Helston has been the twin city of Sasso Marconi, in Italy.
Helston also hosts The Flambards Experience, formerly the Helston Aero Park, which is a theme park with a selection of rides together with a few remaining aviation exhibits. Nearby Wendron is home to the Poldark Mine theme park, where visitors can go underground into the old workings.>p />The town also boasts an active sporting scene, with Helston RFC, Helston AFCand Helston Cricket Club all having prominent roles within the community. Also, the Swallows Gymnastics Club is also extremely popular within the area.
The town has a King George V Playing Field.
