Cornish Myths & Legends

Step into a magical exhibition inspired by the old fireside stories of Cornish folk.

Cornish Myths & Legends explores the lore of this land, using art and artefacts to illuminate legends which still resonate today.

Designed for all ages, interactive moments include a story corner, potions cabinet and magical dressing-up box, while an accompanying events programme dives deeper into the Cornish otherworld.

A visit to this major new exhibition reveals hidden treasure, powerful objects, and moments of natural magic. Meet our characters: piskies, giants, mermaids, and wizards. Explore the setting: the mysterious land of Cornwall. Carved from granite and reaching out into the Atlantic, this land feels closer than anywhere to the raw forces of nature.

Myths are woven into the Cornish landscape; they help shape the culture and sense of community in this proud and unique place. Legends have drawn visitors to Cornwall for centuries, connecting us to the past while changing over time to stay meaningful today. Folklore reminds us of what lasts — and why it matters.

Some stories grow from ancient burial sites and old mines filled with mystery. They lead us to standing stones, island castles, tiny chapels, and Celtic crosses, and appear in long-celebrated feasts and festivals. Other tales take us on journeys through green forests and along hidden smuggling routes, across rocky cliffs and sandy beaches, and out to sea — where sea monsters, shipwrecks, and lost treasure wait to be discovered.

This exhibition gently lifts the curtain between our world and a magical one, inviting you to follow your curiosity and sense of wonder.