A transformed red telephone box is now open to the public — this time as one of Cornwall’s smallest museums.
Located on Harbour Head in Porthleven, the old phone box has been converted into a compact museum that tells the story of the seaside town through curated historical displays and interactive content.
It was officially opened on Friday morning by mayor Mike Toy and is now available for use.
The outside of the phone box has been covered with historical photos and information, detailing the history of Porthleven.
There are also QR codes to scan, revealing more information to visitors through audio recordings and archived materials.
The project is a collaboration between the Porthleven Harbour & Dock Company and Porthleven Museum.
Jo Sharp, from the Porthleven Harbour & Dock Company, said: "This project is not just about preserving history; it’s about making it accessible and engaging for everyone.
"We are thrilled to contribute to the community in such an innovative way and to encourage people to discover more about Porthleven’s fascinating past."
Emma Short from Porthleven Museum added: "Porthleven Museum are delighted to have taken part in curating a first physical home for the unique stories and histories of our town’s past.
"We look forward to working with the Harbour and Dock Company in the months to come as displays change and new topics are introduced.
"We hope everyone, locals and visitors alike, can take pleasure in this new amenity."
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Officially opened to the public on April 17 at 11am, the museum is now accessible for viewing by both residents and visitors.
The organisers have promised that exhibits will be updated regularly, offering fresh content and perspectives throughout the year.
The project was made possible through the support and efforts of Tanya Nobel and Nigel Pepperall of the Porthleven Harbour & Dock Company, and Emma Short and John Strike from Porthleven Museum.
All were thanked for their work in curating the displays and converting the iconic red kiosk.
The red telephone box itself is a piece of British history.
Designed in 1924 by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, it once served as an essential communications lifeline, particularly in rural areas before the rise of mobile phones.
Though many have become obsolete, hundreds have been preserved through creative reuse.
Similar phone boxes have been turned into mini-libraries, art installations, and defibrillator stations.
Porthleven's mini museum is not the first of its kind in Cornwall, with St Columb Major also having its red phone box converted into a museum.
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