Things to do in Falmouth

The quaint, seaside town of Falmouth, situated along the south coast to the west of Cornwall, is known for its rich heritage, vibrant culture and impressive historic landmarks set along its rugged coastal backdrop.

There is so much to uncover in Falmouth, and in this blog, we’ll highlight our favourite activities to do in and around the town and surrounding area, including popular attractions, our favourite walking routes, some unmissable eateries, and the best ways to see Falmouth from the water.

Uncover our best things to do in Falmouth below and why not book a break in this charming nautical town? Discover our collection of Falmouth self-catering cottages in the area, whether you’re after a dog-friendly property, a romantic getaway for two, or wanting to escape with the family, we’ve plenty of places to stay. Click the button below to find your perfect match.

Holiday cottages in Falmouth

Skip to:

Falmouth FAQs

Boat rides and cruises around Falmouth

The picturesque coastal setting of Falmouth is the ideal place to hop onboard a boat and explore the enchanting waterways of Cornwall’s breathtaking coast and array of fascinating wildlife.

Depending on where you choose to venture, basking sharks, dolphins, seals, coastal birds, and otters can all be spotted from the estuary to the bay, and beyond.

Falmouth Boat Trips

Locally and family-run Falmouth Boat Trips offer a wide selection of boat trips, fishing groups, and cruises around the port. Visit the quaint Cornish village of St Mawes with just a 20-minute trip across the harbour. Or how about their 45-minute Harbour Cruise? Sit back as you take in Falmouth Docks, Flushing, and the castles of St Mawes and Pendennis from the comfort of the boat.

All trips feature onboard commentary, pointing out places of interest as well as local wildlife. Their handy central location on the Prince of Wales Pier means you can plan your trip around a day out in the town before embarking on your chosen excursion.

AK Wildlife Cruises

With over 25 years of experience and a multi-award-winning eco-tourism cruise, you’re in good hands as you set sail around the Falmouth coast and beyond with AK Wildlife Cruises. The company prides itself on delivering a high-quality experience with its expert crew and well-equipped, comfortable boat – complete with an outdoor deck and indoor viewing area.

The company adheres to responsible wildlife-watching guidelines, respecting the natural habitats and behaviours of the marine wildlife they encounter. Wildlife cruises include a 3-hour Estuary Wildlife Cruise, a 4-hour Coastal and Offshore Cruise, and a 7-hour Ocean Exploration Cruise.

Discover Falmouth's beaches

A visit to the area isn’t complete without a trip to one of its most popular attractions: the superb beaches. And the Falmouth beach that continues to see visitors flocking, is the inviting Gyllyngvase Beach (or Gylly Beach to the locals). It’s a winner with families thanks to its sheltered cove location, soft sands and craggy rock pools to clamber over and explore. Lifeguards are on duty during the bustling summer months, helping to keep an eye while you sit back and bask in the sun.

Swanpool Beach and Nature Reserve sits towards the south of Falmouth with its mix of sand and shingle for placing your beach towels. The amenities on this beach are second to none, making your day out that bit easier. You’ll find a café, nearby parking, toilets and a host of water sports activities available, as well as the nature reserve and crazy golf course to the rear of the beach. Don’t forget to pack your fishing nets for the rockpools that are teeming with marine life.

Discover the charming narrow stretch and crystal-clear waters of Castle Beach at low tide, where you can take in views of the nearby Pendennis Castle. Accessible via a sloping path, this sandy and shingle beach boasts a friendly seasonal café with a decked area for unwinding. It’s a favoured spot amongst swimmers, divers and snorkelers alike.

Outdoor activities in Falmouth

The Cornish landscape and coastline provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor pursuits. If you’re eager to explore the calm, shimmering waters, consider hiring a kayak or giving SUPing a try, and take in the stunning coastal views from the water.

Via Ferrata

For the thrill-seekers among you, venture to the granite quarries of Via Ferrata near Penryn, and face your fears as you soar through the air on their scenic zipline. They offer a whole host of exhilarating activities. For the younger members of your crew or those less adventurous, they also have a wild play area and adventure nature trails to try.

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary 

Journey out to Gweek, 9 miles from Falmouth, and visit The Cornish Seal Sanctuary set on a 45-acre site above the Helford Estuary. Get up close to these exquisite and intriguing animals in one of the three underwater viewing areas and discover the unique stories of each seal. Visit the Seal Hospital and educate yourself on the wonderful work the sanctuary carries out to rehabilitate and release a variety of marine life back into the wild. You can visit their Puffin Island attraction, home to ten pint-sized Icelandic puffins, and the resident beavers of the Secret Creek conservation project. It certainly gets our seal of approval!

Walks around Falmouth

Blow away the cobwebs and head out to one of Falmouth's idyllic walking spots. Whether you want to take in the dramatic coastline or head inland to explore footpaths, hedgerows and woodlands, there’s a walk to suit all abilities. Heading north of Falmouth, you can enjoy the National Trust’s Trelissick Garden with a walk through the woodlands and along the rippling riverbanks of the Fal River. Make a stop and refuel at the Trust’s welcoming café.

Located on the headland with inspiring views out to the open sea and back towards Falmouth, the 16^th-century Pendennis Castle dominates the coastline with its towering stone walls and turrets. Behold this fine specimen of English Heritage from the South West Coast Path with a walk starting at Swanpool Beach or further round at Maenporth Beach for a slightly longer walk. Take a picnic and make the most of the grounds and panoramic views whilst Fido sniffs through the undergrowth.

For a more moderate walk, head over the estuary to Saint Mawes Quay where you can embark on a circular walk around the salt-sprayed headland, observing the impressively preserved Tudor castle as you go.

Wander Falmouth’s Gardens

Falmouth boasts several beautiful gardens and parks, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through a charming open space near the town centre or an afternoon exploring a lush estate garden just beyond, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax and unwind surrounded by nature.

Glendurgan Garden 

This exquisite garden is one of many National Trust places to visit in Cornwall. Explore the distinctive, exotic Glendurgan Garden, which features three valleys of striking plants and radiant blooms, as well as flamboyant meadows full of wildflowers throughout the spring. Amble around the many paths and walkways, making your way down to the Helford River and the unspoilt beach-side hamlet of Durgan. This historic garden was created by Alfred and Sarah Fox in the 1820s and boasts an impressive hedge maze – which of your clan will be the first to the centre? Other noteworthy points of interest include a recreation of the first school opened by the Foxes in 1829 for local children and, for the more active in your gang, jump on the Giant's Stride rotating rope swing.

Trebah Garden

Peace and serenity await you with 4 miles of footpaths and vibrant terrain at the subtropical Trebah Garden. With its coastal backdrop and seasonally colour-changing array, this unique space is the perfect place to roam with the whole family. Explore the secluded beach and historic court garden, before clambering over the rope bridges of the adventure play area with the kids and stopping off at one of its two cafes and plant centre.

Take in a round of golf | Above The Bay Golf Club

Tee off on this breathtaking 18-hole, 5,822-yard par 70 golf course, aptly named Above The Bay Golf Club. Perched above Falmouth Bay with views over Swanpool and Maenporth beaches, the remarkable course embraces the Cornish coastline and offers an unforgettable golfing experience with no requirements for a specific handicap – beginners are welcome! 

Once you’ve flexed your skills out on the course at this Falmouth golf club, head inside to the sophisticated and inviting restaurant and bar where they’re waiting to serve up appetising dishes from breakfast and brunch to small and large plates and sandwiches, as well as a mouthwatering carvery on Sundays.

Indoor activities in Falmouth

No sunshine? No problem! We understand that we can’t promise the weather for your time away, but with a stay in Falmouth, there is still plenty to keep the whole family occupied should the rain start to fall.

Pheonix Cinema

Take a trip to the flicks, grab your popcorn and check out the latest film to hit the big screen with your gang.

As well as offering the latest blockbusters and mainstream cinema releases, Pheonix Cinema also screens several special stage-to-screen events with their Event Cinema programme, hosting performances from the RSC and Royal Ballet and Opera. They also show alternative titles from critically acclaimed world cinema to indie instant classics and award-winners. These screenings are limited and space-dependent but if you’re an avid film buff, it's absolutely worth checking their website.

The Falmouth cinema also holds relaxed/autism-friendly screenings (usually on the first Sunday of the month), allowing them to cater to the needs of individuals with a range of conditions.

The National Maritime Museum, Cornwall

Embark on a voyage of discovery as you explore the rich Cornish culture and heritage on display at The National Maritime Museum.

Situated on Discovery Quay with stunningly beautiful views over Falmouth Harbour, this impressive structure is home to 15 galleries and many exhibitions set over five impressively packed floors.

All aboard! Wander through the jaw-dropping flotilla exhibition below the array of suspended small boats, each with a unique tale of those who built and used them. Discover the historic maritime empire that was once Falmouth Harbour and climb to the top tower to take in the views from The Lookout, spotting the local landmarks and coastal features of this impressive area.

There’s so much to see at the amazing Falmouth Maritime Museum and plenty of interactive exhibitions to keep little ones entertained.

Falmouth Art Gallery

Soak in the culture at the award-winning and family-friendly Falmouth Art Gallery, conveniently situated on The Moor in the centre of Falmouth.

With their extensive collection, the gallery showcases over 2,700 pieces of artwork from Pre-Raphaelite to contemporary prints and an archive dedicated to children’s illustration. Their remarkable displays will certainly have you and your squad pondering paintings and sharing your perspectives.

The gallery stages three thematic and rotating exhibitions a year, showcasing a diverse range of artworks from traditional to contemporary. After your visit, head outside to the town’s centre and find a welcoming café for a quick bite before deciding on your next activity.

Shopping in Falmouth

The seaside town boasts an eclectic range of high-street stores as well as independent boutiques, art galleries, booksellers, quaint gift shops, and artisan bakeries. Wander along the charming, traditional high street venturing off the beaten track, and down passageways for hidden gems and delightful shopping experiences.

For the best retailer of outdoor apparel, kit and boat equipment in the town, head for Bosun’s Locker and browse their big brand names including Carhartt and Patagonia. A few doors down, prepare to fall into other worlds as you enter Falmouth Bookseller, one of the leading bookshops in the UK stocking a wide range of fiction, children’s books and local interest titles. Towards the further end of the town, you’ll find Trago Mills, the largest shop in Falmouth. Packed with unmissable bargains over four storeys, as well as a lovely café with views of the town – stop by for a Cornish cream tea (jam first, you understand).

With its grand arched entrance and colourful décor, St George’s Arcade certainly stands out. Nestled amongst the vibrant and charming backdrop of Church Street, it’s home to a cluster of small, independent shops including a greengrocer, and a vintage store called Outer Goddess, full of unique clothing, jewellery and accessories – perfect if you’re after something a little different.

Places to eat in Falmouth

Keeping in line with the eclectic spirit of Falmouth, the eateries in the town are wide-ranging and offer a host of cuisines. From friendly local pubs and beachside cafes to mouthwatering steakhouses and seafood restaurants in the harbour, there is something to suit all tastes.

Culture

Awarded Falmouth’s first Michelin Green Star in 2023 – recognising the restaurant's leading efforts in sustainability – Culture is in its very nature an immersive gastronomical experience. Steeped in influences from the surrounding landscapes, expect locally sourced produce, freshly foraged from the local land and waters; their online menu is a sight to behold. For the foodies among you, this extraordinary restaurant promises a memorable dining experience that will enhance your time in Falmouth with a touch of finesse.

UpperDeck

Take a pew at UpperDeck, the contemporary bar and restaurant pleasantly located in Falmouth’s Yacht Marina with picturesque harbour views. Expect a warm, family-friendly welcome and high-quality fare sourced from the best local suppliers. Watch the bobbing vessels as you tuck into locally caught seafood specials, as well as a range of tasty small and big plates, handmade pizzas and a menu catering to little ones.

770×330 jpg
0 B

Harbour Lights

What trip to the seaside is complete without a fish and chip supper? Head to Harbour Lights for an award-winning traditional British staple. Grab a table inside with harbour views or enjoy your chippie tea to go and head off down to the quay.

Map of things to do in Falmouth

Use our map below to locate our recommendations for things to do in Falmouth including our favourite walking routes, beaches, eateries and more.

Holiday cottages in Falmouth

If Falmouth’s captivating coastal charm and intriguing attractions have caught you hook, line and sinker, then consider indulging in a stay at one of our nearby holiday cottages.

No matter if you’re part of a large group of family and friends, a couple after a romantic break, or looking for a quiet getaway for yourself and a pooch or two, we have the perfect retreat in our Falmouth collection and the surrounding area.

Holiday cottages in Falmouth