Few seaside towns boast as jaw-dropping a location as Falmouth. Perched on the southwestern edge of Cornwall’s granite finger, Falmouth gazes over the mouth of the Fal River as it pours into the English Channel, flanked by rolling green hills and a sparkling blue sea. It’s not just the views that make this town special—Falmouth is also the intriguing centre of Cornwall’s maritime history and home to some of the most undeniably beautiful land and seascapes in the county.
Falmouth’s historic town centre is a maze of cobbled lanes, quirky shops, and salty old pubs with rickety roofs. It’s a place where history meets a uniquely fun and trendy local culture. The town owes much of its prosperity to the 18th and 19th centuries, when it became a hub of maritime trade. Its deep-water harbour—the third largest in the world—saw tea clippers, mail packets, and trading ships dock along the busy quayside. While the cargo ships are long gone, the harbour remains the town’s heart, alive with a mix of naval ships, superyachts, and fishing vessels. Add to this world-class gardens, stunning beaches, and a buzzing food and drink scene, and it’s clear why Falmouth is a jewel of the Cornish coast.
In Falmouth and its neighbouring town Penryn, you’ll find beaches, stunning scenery, and a treasure trove of shops selling everything from locally made art to vintage finds. It’s also home to some of Cornwall’s best fish and chips and, of course, the perfect Cornish pasty. From the National Maritime Museum to the buzzing cafes and microbreweries along the waterfront, Falmouth brims with life and character.
Add to that a year-round calendar of events—think Falmouth Week, the Oyster Festival (featuring the legendary speed shucking contest), and the International Sea Shanty Festival—and you’ve got a town that knows how to put on a show.
So with all that to explore, let’s get stuck into the best in the west!
Top things to see in Falmouth
National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Discovery Quay, and the marina provide an unrivalled insight into the geography and history of the town. The museum itself is a treasure trove of maritime stories, featuring everything from daring rescues to tales of shipwrecks and voyages across uncharted waters. The boats suspended in its cavernous main hall are a marvel, and the panoramic views from its rooftop platform are simply spectacular.
For something a little different, head to the tidal chamber at the base of the museum. Its underwater viewing window offers a rare glimpse of the harbour’s aquatic life, making it a favourite stop for visitors.
Pendennis Castle
Looming over Falmouth town as a granite monument to long forgotten European quarrels, Pendennis Castle is a step back in time, offering a fascinating glimpse into centuries of Cornish history. Built by Henry VIII, this Tudor stronghold has evolved through generations of military use, from defending against foreign invasions to serving as a base during the world wars.
Walking its battlements, you can feel the history in every stone—and the views from its headland location are nothing short of breathtaking. Don’t miss the chance to explore the exhibitions inside, which bring to life the stories of the soldiers who stood guard here through the various evolutions of the castle and its garrison, from the sixteenth century to the Second World War.
Falmouth Harbour
They say the best things in life are free, and in Falmouth, this couldn’t be more true. Strolling around the harbour is a simple joy, with every turn revealing a new angle of life on the water. Watch as fishing boats bring in their catch, sleek yachts glide through the waves, and locals bustle about their day.
The surrounding lanes and streets offer endless opportunities for people-watching, with plenty of cosy cafes and harbourside pubs to punctuate your sightseeing. And if you’re looking for a moment of quiet reflection, make your way to Pendennis Point, where you’ll find the perfect perch on the rocks to take in the expansive views of the English Channel.
Houses and Gardens
Sheltered from the brunt of the harshest Atlantic winds, the coastline around Falmouth benefits from a balmy subtropical climate that allows exotic plants and trees to flourish. It’s no wonder that some of the county’s finest gardens and country estates are found here.
In the neighbouring Helford estuary, you can visit Trebah Garden and wander through vibrant plant-lined paths that lead to a private beach on the Helford River. Next door, the National Trust’s Glendurgan Garden is home to a famous hedge maze. Penryn is home to one of Cornwall’s oldest gardens, Enys—a real off the radar gem, especially famous for its spring bluebells and peaceful meadows. Falmouth also houses Penjerrick Garden, a hidden oasis that feels wild and untouched, with exotic plants and a charmingly overgrown atmosphere.
Slightly further afield, Trelissick is home to some of the area’s best parkland and gentle estuary walks. And for something a bit different, Potager Garden, a community gardening project, is well worth a visit and a great place to relax for a few hours.
Falmouth Art Gallery
This small but impressive gallery is a cultural gem. Housing works by renowned artists like Henry Scott Tuke and Thomas Gainsborough, Falmouth Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers. Its exhibitions rotate regularly, so there’s always something fresh to see—whether it’s Victorian masterpieces, photography, or contemporary local art.
Falmouth University Tremough Campus
Now housing the twinned Universities of Falmouth and Exeter, Tremough campus also houses some of the areas finest gardens and tree lined avenues that are open to the public. It’s well worth an afternoon to get lost amongst the greenery and towering trees.
Read more about visiting and walking around the campus here.
The Flicka Foundation Donkey Sanctuary
Home to more than 100 donkeys and a handful of ponies that have been rescued from across Europe, the Flicka Donkey sanctuary is a must see which is popular with visitors young and old who all get uplifted by interacting with an petting the lovable residents. There’s no entrance fee as the emphasis is on education, but donations are welcome and they also make a yummy cream tea in the onsite cafe!
Read more about Flicka Foundation here.
Kernow Adventure Park
Home to a variety of different watersports including wakeboarding, stand up paddle boarding and a brilliant floating assault course, this former quarry is a brilliant and adrenaline filled day out.
Read more here
Via Feretta
Climb Cornwall’s only iron stairway and experience the county’s granite quarrying heritage up close as you ascend cliff faces, cross high wire bridges, tackle high challenges and zip back down to ground level, across this 60-acre former industrial site. Not for the timid for sure, but a day here will be one that lives long in the memory.
Learn more here
Church of King Charles the Martyr
Somewhat an oddball selection, but if history were places then nowhere quite outlines Falmouth’s edginess like this place. Falmouth, or its ruling squirearchy at the time, was staunchly loyal to the crown during the Civil War. Sir Peter Killigrew – very much a man on the make – donated land for a church in which, extraordinarily, Charles I is venerated as a martyr. Its dour granite exterior doesn’t prepare you for the luminous stucco ornament within. Charles is there in the stained glass over the main altar, just to the left of Christ the King, clutching a distinctly Christ-like orb and an executioner’s axe.
Things to do
Hit the beach:
Falmouth is blessed with masses of waterfront and some fab beaches to suit all tastes. Castle beach stretches across underneath Castle Road and offers great rock pooling swimming. The funky Gyllyngvase beach is a hotspot for students with barbeques and sweet beats filling the summer evenings. Swanpool beach is backed by a lake and is a popular spot with families, whilst Maenporth beach, just out of town is a great place for watersports and those that want to sunbathe in a bit more serenity.
If you’re looking for a bit of oceanside solitude you can head out to Pendennis point and find a perch on the rocks overlooking the water.
Get on the water:
You don’t need to be an experienced seadog to enjoy a trip around the harbour. There are boats for hire, but probably the most leisurely and economical way to try out your sea legs is to get on one of the ferries to St Mawes, Trelissick or Truro. Pick of the bunch for a quick jaunt across the harbour has to go to the MV Miranda, which goes from Falmouth to Flushing more or less all year round.
For nature lovers there’s some highly recommended sea life safaris, such as Orca Tours, that embark from the harbour and offer a chance to encounter some of the area’s spectacular ocean residents which include seals, whales and dolphins.
Get in the water:
Walk anywhere in Falmouth’s town centre and you’ll see someone getting ready to get in the water. It’s almost as if Falmouthians are born with gills. From wild swimming and snorkelling to stand up paddle boarding, Falmouth’s town beaches all offer safe and tranquil waters to take a dip. For those wanting to try their hand at activities such as stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, windsurfing or sailing we can recommend Elemental who are based at Gylly beach.
Go for a walk
For those that like to travel on two feet, Falmouth is a dream. From waterfront strolls along the harbour to longer treks that take in the Falmouth’s beaches. In the hills behind Falmouth you can take in views across Falmouth bay, and also walk around the lovely Argal lake. Further afield there’s brilliant estuary hiking along the Helford river and the Carrick Roads. And then of course there’s the nearby sections of South West Coast Path. Take your pick – every one’s a winner!
Go to the pub
Nothing beats the atmosphere of a Falmouth pub. Whether it’s a student-filled evening at The Front, a lively night at Beerwolf Books (part bookshop, part pub), or a harbourside pint at The Chain Locker, there’s a spot for everyone. Falmouth’s social scene is a vibrant mix of yacht owners, students, and locals, creating an atmosphere that’s as diverse as it is welcoming. Watching the sunset with a pint in hand as the harbour lights begin to twinkle—there’s no better way to end the day.
Places to Eat
Long a town that looks beyond its harbour, he best of Falmouth’s eating scene has an emphasis on local produce fused with influences from elsewhere. From places with ace harbour views to die for like Windjammer, and award winning plates from places like Daaku, Falmouth has something for every taste and budget. Plus of course we have some of the best pasties and freshest fish and chips in the county.
Learn more in our in depth guide to the best places to eat in Falmouth and Penryn
Discover Falmouth from Trewena Cottages: Your Gateway to Cornwall’s Best Attractions
Located just 10 minutes from the heart of Falmouth, Trewena Cottages are your perfect base to experience the best this iconic seaside town has to offer. From exploring historic landmarks like Pendennis Castle and the world-class National Maritime Museum Cornwall to strolling along the harbourside and discovering hidden gems like Falmouth Art Gallery or Penjerrick Garden, everything is within easy reach.
For outdoor lovers, Falmouth is a gateway to the South West Coast Path, where you’ll find breathtaking coastal walks and secluded beaches like Castle Beach and Gyllyngvase Beach. The town is also a haven for watersports enthusiasts, with opportunities for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and wild swimming right along its shores.
Foodies will adore Falmouth’s vibrant dining scene, with must-visit restaurants serving fresh seafood, Cornish pasties, and harbourfront views that are second to none. After a day of exploring, head back to Trewena Cottages, perfectly positioned near the Flicka Donkey Sanctuary and offering direct access to some of the most scenic hikes in Cornwall.
Whether you’re looking for romantic walks, adventurous activities, or just a place to unwind by the coast, Trewena Cottages put you right in the heart of it all. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Falmouth for yourself.
