Falmouth is a charming university town in Southwest Cornwall, sitting on the River Fal’s estuary and known for having one of the world’s deepest natural harbors.
There’s plenty to do in Falmouth, from visiting Pendennis Castle to exploring local beaches, museums, and shops. If you’re planning a trip, this town makes a great base for your Cornwall holiday.
One of the best ways to get to know Falmouth is by taking a walking tour, which will help you explore the town’s maritime history while wandering through its streets and alleys. This 90-minute tour runs at 2:00 pm on Sundays and Wednesdays.
Pendennis Castle, a 16th-century fort built by King Henry VIII, is a must-visit. It sits on a rocky peninsula and offers stunning views. Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, tickets cost £11.60 for adults and £6.90 for children.
The National Maritime Museum offers insights into Falmouth’s seafaring past with fascinating exhibits and a boat-building yard. It’s located by the deepwater harbor and is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Tickets are £15.50 for adults and £7.75 for children.
Beach lovers will want to check out Gyllyngvase Beach, just a ten-minute walk from the town center. This Blue Flag beach has facilities like cafes, shops, and lifeguards in summer. Other nearby beaches include Castle Beach and Swanpool Beach.
For those who enjoy kayaking, set off from Gylly Beach for a two-hour sea kayak adventure exploring sea caves and shipwrecks. It costs £55.00 per person and departs daily from 9:30 am.
Falmouth also hosts one of Cornwall’s busiest lifeboat stations, with free tours available from Tuesday to Friday. The RNLI volunteers are always ready to launch in any weather.
Wildlife enthusiasts can book a trip with AK Wildlife Cruises to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Tours range from 3 to 7 hours, starting at £55.00 for adults and £40.00 for children.
For family fun, visit Flambards Theme Park in Helston, about 13 miles from Falmouth. Enjoy rides, attractions, and more, with tickets costing £19.95 for adults and £14.95 for children.
Nature lovers will appreciate Trebah Gardens, a sub-tropical paradise covering 26 acres. Open from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, tickets are £13.00 for adults and £6.50 for children.
Falmouth is also a great shopping destination with a mix of high street stores and local artisans. A unique spot is Beerwolf Books, a pub that lets you browse books while enjoying a drink. The Falmouth Markets on the Moor are perfect for picking up fresh produce and local crafts.
For virtual reality gaming, head to Raze VR in nearby Penryn. Open 24 hours from Monday to Thursday, prices start at £7.50 per session.
Art lovers should visit Falmouth Art Gallery, featuring over 2,000 pieces ranging from Pre-Raphaelite to contemporary art. Open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, entry is free.
A short ferry ride takes you to Flushing, a charming village with a small harbor and narrow lanes. The ferry operates daily with tickets costing £4.00 for adults and £1.50 for children.
The Eden Project, located near Falmouth, is a botanic garden housed in biomes with a rainforest and Mediterranean zone. Tickets are £32.50 for adults and £11.00 for children.
A visit to Land’s End, the westernmost point of mainland Britain, offers dramatic views and various attractions. Accessible via an open-top bus from Penzance, tickets cost $5.00.
For a well-rounded visit, start with a walk around the harbor, explore the National Maritime Museum, and visit Pendennis Castle. Relax at Gyllyngvase Beach, shop in the town, and don’t miss the Flushing Ferry. Extend your trip to include kayaking, a wildlife cruise, Trebah Gardens, the Eden Project, and Flambards Theme Park.
Falmouth has plenty of great neighborhoods to stay in, whether you choose a harborside apartment, a beachfront property, or a cozy cottage in the center.
Dining options include the Seafood Bar by Verdant Brewing Co, Restaurant MINE, and the Boathouse Pub, all offering delicious local fare.
Falmouth is known for its deepwater port, maritime history, and lively atmosphere. Summer is the best time to visit, and the town’s vibrant scene makes it a great base for exploring Cornwall.
Now you have a guide to making the most of your time in Falmouth, from its stunning harbor and beaches to its rich history and excellent dining.
