Falmouth Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Falmouth in Cornwall, including places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Falmouth

Located in Cornwall, in the West Country area of England, Falmouth is a picturesque town that offers visitors a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. With its stunning coastline, award-winning beaches, and charming town center full of quaint cafes, shops, and restaurants, Falmouth is a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing seaside getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Falmouth

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Maritime Museum Cornwall
  • Pendennis Castle
  • Falmouth Art Gallery
  • Gyllyngdune Gardens

Natural Attractions of Falmouth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Swanpool Beach
  • Gyllyngvase Beach
  • South West Coast Path
  • Lizard Point
  • Helford River

Hiking/Biking Routes of Falmouth

Whether you prefer a gentle coastal stroll or a challenging hike through the Cornish countryside, Falmouth has something to offer every level of adventurer.

  • South West Coast Path
  • The Lizard Peninsula Walk
  • Penrose Estate Walk
  • Tehidy Country Park

Best Things to Do in Falmouth: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking and paddleboarding along Falmouth Bay
  • Sailing on a traditional Cornish lugger
  • Visiting local wineries and breweries
  • Exploring the town’s colorful street art
  • Taking a river cruise along the Fal River

Week-Long Itinerary for Falmouth

Day Activity
1 Visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and have lunch at Rick Stein’s fish house
2 Explore Pendennis Castle and take a walk along the South West Coast Path
3 Take a boat trip to St. Mawes and enjoy a seafood lunch
4 Spend the day at Gyllyngvase Beach and try water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding
5 Go on a wine-tasting tour and visit local wineries and breweries
6 Take a river cruise along the Fal River and visit the picturesque village of Flushing
7 Visit the gardens of Trebah and Glendurgan, and end the day with a visit to Falmouth Art Gallery

Food and Drink Scene of Falmouth

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cornish pasty
  • Cream tea with Cornish clotted cream and scones
  • Fresh fish and seafood
  • Hevva cake
  • Cornish ice cream

Local Beverages

  • Cornish ale and cider
  • Local wines and spirits
  • Tregothnan tea

Where to Stay in Falmouth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • St Michaels Resort: A luxurious spa hotel with a seaside location
  • Falmouth Townhouse: A boutique hotel in the heart of the town center
  • The Falmouth Hotel: A grand Victorian hotel with sea views
  • The Chain Locker: A historic pub with cozy rooms

What to Buy in Falmouth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cornish fudge and shortbread
  • Local jams and chutneys
  • Cornish sea salt
  • Cornish pottery and ceramics
  • Cornish tin jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Falmouth

Cornwall has its own distinct culture and identity, with a strong connection to the sea and a thriving arts scene. Falmouth is a cosmopolitan and diverse town that welcomes visitors from all over the world. It’s important to respect the local customs, including the Cornish language and traditions like the Furry Dance.

Best Time to Visit Falmouth

Falmouth is lovely to visit all year round, but peak season is from June to September when the weather is warmer and the town is bustling with tourists. Spring and autumn are quieter and can be cooler, but still offer plenty of activities and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Falmouth

Do:

  • Try the local seafood and Cornish pasties
  • Visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall
  • Explore the South West Coast Path
  • Take a boat trip to St. Mawes

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or in public spaces
  • Ignore the local customs and traditions
  • Drive on narrow and winding roads without caution

Safety and Health

Safety in Falmouth

Falmouth is generally a safe town, but visitors should be cautious near the water and take necessary precautions when participating in water sports. Street crime is rare, but visitors should still be aware of their surroundings and take care of their valuables.

Health in Falmouth

The water in Falmouth is clean and safe to swim in. The town has several medical facilities and pharmacies, but visitors should have travel insurance and any necessary vaccinations before arriving.

Getting to Falmouth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Falmouth

  • Newquay Airport
  • Exeter Airport

Bus Stations Near Falmouth

  • Falmouth Bus Station
  • Truro Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: Falmouth is connected by train to Truro, which has connections to other major UK cities.
  • Ferry: Visitors can take a ferry from nearby destinations like St. Mawes and Truro.

How to Get Around in Falmouth

Falmouth is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. There are also several bus routes that connect the town center to other areas of Cornwall. Taxis, bikes, and car rentals are also available.

Where to Go Next from Falmouth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • St. Ives: A picturesque seaside town with beaches and art galleries
  • The Lizard Peninsula: A wild and rugged coastline with unique flora and fauna
  • Truro: Cornwall’s only city with a beautiful cathedral and vibrant shopping scene
  • Isles of Scilly: A stunning archipelago with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and unique wildlife

Conclusion

Falmouth is a charming and beautiful town that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the award-winning beaches and outdoor adventures to the museums, galleries, and local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this wonderful part of Cornwall.

Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth