[3] St Michael Penkivel lies within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The church is close to the Tregothnan estate in a wooded setting and was consecrated in 1261; probably consisting only of a nave and chancel.

At the time of its restoration by George Street in the 19th century, the church was cruciform with a western tower and south porch.

[7] The village was used as the main location for the 2005 feature film Keeping Mum which starred Rowan Atkinson, Patrick Swayze, Kristin Scott Thomas and Dame Maggie Smith.

Oliver Carminow (died 1597) from Fentongollan in the parish was a Member of the Parliament of England.