Falmouth

Falmouth is a port and university town in south Cornwall, built around the third-deepest natural harbour in the world. The town has five beaches, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall on its waterfront, and Falmouth University’s campus in the heart of the town. With a resident population of around 24,000 (2021 census), it supports a year-round programme of festivals and events rather than relying solely on the summer season.

History

Falmouth dates back to the 17th century, when the port was built and outgrew the neighbouring town of Penryn. Henry VIII built two forts to guard the harbour, Pendennis and St Mawes, in the 1540s; Pendennis held out for Charles I through a long siege in the Civil War before surrendering to Parliament in 1646. Falmouth continued to grow after the war, and when it became the Royal Mail packet station in 1688 it grew at pace. When the railways reached Falmouth in the 19th century it became a popular holiday destination as well as a thriving port. Falmouth played its part in WW2, and the town and docks suffered German bombing raids, including one on 30 May 1944 that killed a number of residents. Today the main industry is tourism and the town certainly delivers to the many guests that visit each year.

Things to Do

The beaches in and around Falmouth make for a great day out and of course the beaches are free so a great way to spend some quality family time. For somewhere quieter, Porth Saxon is a secluded sandy cove reached only by the coast path - clear water for swimming and snorkelling, with no parking or facilities, so carry in what you need. In addition to the beaches though Falmouth has many other attractions linking to its history and beauty. The Maritime Museum is a fun way to learn about the influence the sea has had on the region and throughout the year they have exciting exhibitions that you can join, please check their website for details on when these exhibitions are. Pendennis and St Mawes Castles are open to the public to explore. Get transported back to Henry VIII’s time when he was building a sea fort and commissioned these castles to be built. Both castles have some great exhibitions for you to attend too. One of the most popular things to do in Falmouth is the river tour, set off from the harbour and explore the beauty of the River Fal. In addition to this kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boards, surfing and fishing - basically every water sport activity you could ask for. In addition to water-related activities, the area is packed full of cycling and hiking routes, perfect for a cycling or dog walking holiday.

Eating & Drinking

One of the best night’s out in Cornwall, Falmouth has a wide selection of bars, restaurants and festivals. There are some excellent fine dining restaurants serving the freshest local produce you can imagine, as well as some more informal dining choices with sea views and a fantastic variety of food. Takeaway cuisine from all over the world - perfect if you have one of our self-catering accommodation options in and around Falmouth. Head to The Brig, a pirate-themed basement bar on Arwenack Street, for rum cocktails and barbecue-style food. Beerwolf Books, a bar with a difference gives you a trendy hangout and features its own library. There are plenty of quirky places to explore in Falmouth but actually, some of the best bars and restaurants are just the ones with no frills that look out onto that amazing view across the harbour or the beach. During peak times live music is a common feature of the town. During the summer months, you will also find festivals throughout the town, The Sea Shanty Festival (held in June at the Princess Pavilion), Falmouth Week and The Spring Festival to name a few. The town really does have a great atmosphere. The Princess Pavilions has live acts too so always check what is going on in Falmouth before you book so you don’t miss out.

Getting Here

Falmouth has a train station which you can use to come from all over the country but also from Truro or surrounding towns that have a station such as Penzance so if you are staying near then check out the train timetables for easy access into the town. Falmouth also has a bus station and again there are regular buses from surrounding areas accessing the town every day, particularly in the peak seasons. There are car parks in the town, including long-stay parking on Church Street, so you don’t have the hassle of finding a space on the street. There is some street parking but as you can imagine some are reserved for locals and it is hard to find a space especially when it is busy.

Guides for Falmouth

• Things to Do in Falmouth with Kids - Pendennis Castle, the National Maritime Museum, Trebah Gardens, and boat trips on the River Fal
• Best Beaches in Falmouth - Gyllyngvase, Swanpool, Maenporth, and quieter coves around the headland
• Where to Eat in Falmouth - 10 restaurants, beach cafes, and gastropubs in Cornwall’s best south coast food town

Events nearby

For the coming weeks, see the Christmas lights switch-on. The Falmouth Book Festival and Fal Beer Fest are awaiting 2027 dates. Check each event for its current programme and ticket arrangements.