Penlee opens their Old Lifeboat House

Over 250 people visited on Easter Monday – here’s when you can go next

Penlee’s Old Lifeboat House at Penlee Point near Mousehole opened its doors to the public on Easter Monday, 21st April, giving visitors the rare opportunity to step inside a building that dates back to 1913.

More than 250 people descended the steps to the old station, which has remained largely untouched since it was last operational in 1981. Visitors from across Cornwall, England and Wales – including RNLI crew members – were among those taking a walk through history.

A Glimpse Into RNLI History

Built before the First World War, the Old Lifeboat House stands as it was over four decades ago. Open Days like Monday’s allow the public to gain a unique insight into the conditions RNLI volunteers once worked in, long before the modern lifeboat station was built.

These Open Days also serve as a fundraising opportunity for the RNLI, with many visitors showing their generosity during the event.

📷Ann and Adam Pentney, RNLI Governors, with Albert Adam Bear, visiting Penlee - Credit: RNLI/Colin Lawry

Who Was There?

Helping to welcome guests were members of the Penlee Visits Team, including Rod James, Trevor Thorne, John Findlay, Mike Sagar-Fenton, Jill Ryan and Colin Lawry.

More Dates to Visit in 2025

If you missed this visit, there are more opportunities to explore the Old Lifeboat House this year. The building will be open between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm on the following dates:

• Bank Holiday Monday 26th May

• Sunday 29th June

• Sunday 27th July

• Wednesday 6th August

• Bank Holiday Monday 25th August

These events continue to offer a glimpse into Cornwall’s lifeboat heritage and an important reminder of the volunteers who once served from this coastal outpost.

📷Credit: RNLI/Colin Lawry

📷Freya is a crew member from The Lizard RNLI visiting Penlee - Credit: RNLI/Colin Lawry