Helston, one of Cornwall's oldest market towns, received its charter from King John in 1201, granting it significant trading privileges.

The town's geographical location near the Cober River, now dammed to form Loe Pool, influenced its early development as a port and milling center.

Helston’s demographics are characterized by a relatively stable population of around 12,000 residents, reflecting a slow and steady growth pattern over recent decades.

Historically, tin mining and agriculture were crucial to Helston's economy, although tourism and service industries have become increasingly dominant in the modern era.

The annual Flora Day festival, also known as the Furry Dance, is Helston's most famous cultural event, a unique celebration of spring with ancient origins, featuring traditional dances through the town.

Loe Pool, Cornwall's largest natural freshwater lake, situated just south of Helston, forms an important part of the area's natural heritage and supports diverse wildlife.

Helston served as a stannary town, playing a significant administrative role in the Cornish tin mining industry by assaying and stamping tin.

The presence of RNAS Culdrose, the largest helicopter base in Europe, located near Helston, contributes significantly to the local economy and influences the town's character.

Helston Museum, housed in the town's former butter market, showcases the rich history of the town and surrounding area, including its mining past and Flora Day traditions.

The town's architecture reflects various periods, with notable examples including the Guildhall, a prominent civic building, and numerous Georgian and Victorian structures.

Helston's role as a market town ensured its historical importance as a center for trade and commerce within the western region of Cornwall.

While not a UNESCO World Heritage Site itself, Helston lies within the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site buffer zone, acknowledging its historical connection to the mining industry.

Helston has seen periods of economic hardship related to the decline of traditional industries, leading to initiatives focused on regeneration and attracting new businesses.

The tradition of throwing pennies to children during Flora Day represents a custom with ambiguous origins, possibly linked to fertility rituals or charitable acts.

The Grylls Monument, a prominent landmark in Helston, commemorates Humphry Millett Grylls, a local hero who defended the town from French invasion in 1808.