PK Porthcurno

Discover the fascinating history of global communications at PK Porthcurno, formerly known as the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum. Situated in the beautiful valley of Porthcurno in west Cornwall, this unusual museum tells the story of how a small Cornish village became one of the most important centres of international communication.

In 1870, the first submarine telegraph cable was landed at Porthcurno, connecting Britain with India and marking the beginning of the village's remarkable role in worldwide communications. Over the following decades, an extensive network of undersea cables developed, carrying messages between countries and helping to transform the way people communicated across the globe.

Today, PK Porthcurno brings this history to life through interactive exhibits, historic equipment and fascinating displays exploring the development of telegraphy and modern communications. Visitors can discover how messages travelled beneath the oceans, learn about the people who operated the cable station and explore the extraordinary engineering behind these early global connections.

One of the museum's most distinctive features is its network of underground tunnels, constructed during the Second World War to protect the vital communications equipment from enemy attack. These atmospheric tunnels offer a fascinating glimpse into Porthcurno's strategic importance during wartime.

The museum is just a short distance from Porthcurno Beach and the famous Minack Theatre, making it an excellent addition to a day exploring this beautiful corner of Cornwall. It's also a particularly good option for families or visitors looking for an interesting indoor activity.

Check the museum's official website for current opening times, admission prices and visitor information before travelling.