Cornish Myths and Legends Exhibition to Open at Cornwall Museum

A new exhibition exploring the magic and mystery of Cornwall’s folklore is set to open at Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery in Truro later this month.

The exhibition, titled Cornish Myths and Legends, launches on 31st March and promises an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Through art, artefacts, storytelling and interactive displays, the exhibition invites people to explore the stories that have shaped Cornwall’s cultural identity.

The announcement also coincides with a milestone for the museum, which is marking 12 months since it re-opened on St Piran’s Day in 2025 following a major phase in its ongoing transformation.

Exploring Cornwall’s Legendary Stories

Designed to be playful and engaging, the exhibition will shed new light on some of Cornwall’s best-known tales while also introducing visitors to lesser-known stories.

Visitors will find a range of interactive features, including opportunities to design potions, dress up in mythical-themed costumes and enjoy a storytelling corner. The exhibition also promises rarely seen illustrations and intriguing artefacts connected to Cornwall’s folklore.

Collections Manager Jeni Woolcock said the exhibition centres around a collection of traditional stories linked closely to Cornwall’s landscape.

Jeni Woolcock said:

“At the heart of the exhibition are nine tales, all part of a collective inheritance of legends linked inseparably with landscape we know and love. These fireside stories have been passed down through the generations and form an important element of Cornwall’s strong regional identity.”

Artefacts and Artwork from Cornwall and Beyond

Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery holds Cornwall’s primary collections, with more than one million historical artefacts, artworks and archive materials documenting the region’s history.

For the exhibition, items from the museum’s own collection will be displayed alongside objects borrowed from other collections.

Jeni Woolcock added:

“At the museum we hold many precious pieces which relate to this new exhibition, for example a stone head from St Piran’s chapel and inscribed stones found at Tintagel. We’re also borrowing items from other collections, and working with contemporary artists to bring the stories to life in creative ways.”

A Growing Interest in Folk Traditions

According to the museum, interest in folklore and traditional culture has grown in recent years.

Museum Co-Director Bryony Robins said the exhibition reflects that renewed interest while encouraging people to reconnect with nature and community traditions.

Bryony Robins explained:

“We’ve seen a resurgence of interest in folk traditions in recent years, whether that be in music or books, art or crafts. In this exhibition we explore ideas and experiences that don’t manifest through digital algorithms, and instead reconnect us with nature, the seasons, and community celebrations. Folklore reminds us of what lasts, and why it matters.”

Visiting the Exhibition

Cornish Myths & Legends will run from 31st March to 1st November 2026 at Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery in Truro.

Entry is included with the museum’s Annual Pass, which costs £10 for adults, while under 18s and carers can visit for free.

More information about the museum and its exhibitions can be found on their  website:https://cornwallmuseum.org/

Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery is a registered charity (Registered Charity Number 1150749) and holds a collection of more than one million artefacts and artworks that help tell the story of Cornwall.