Top 6 Things to Do in Falmouth

Enjoy these things to do in Falmouth and get to know one of Cornwall’s most popular harbour towns!

Falmouth is one of the best UK holiday destinations. It’s got Blue Flag beaches, a bustling foodie scene full of fresh seafood, a lively sailing calendar, and great attractions.

Falmouth is home to the world’s third largest natural harbour, so it’s no wonder that sailing is a popular pastime here.

The River Fal meanders down from the cathedral city of Truro, creating great opportunities for river cruises and boat trips.

You certainly won’t be stuck for things to do in Falmouth, but to help you along the way we’ve put together our top 6 activities.

Read on to find out our top 6 things to do in Falmouth…

1. Swim at Gylly Beach

Gyllyngvase Beach, or Gylly Beach as the locals refer to it, is Falmouth’s largest beach.

It proudly holds Blue Flag status, and is a beautiful crescent of white sands. Enjoy a swim here in the calm waters of Cornwall’s south coast.

Afterwards, head to Gylly Beach Café. They serve up delicious, locally sourced food and homemade sweet treats.

Browse over 150 cottages near Gylly Beach.

2. Visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall

Falmouth’s striking National Maritime Museum Cornwall is a great day out for all ages. It’s the perfect option if you’re struggling for things to do in Falmouth on a rainy day.

Through their fantastic exhibitions, the museum brings new and diverse perspectives to maritime issues.

Marvel at rare objects from around the world, telling international and local stories alike.

Here’s some of the awesome exhibits on at the moment:

• Coastguard 200 – it’s the 200th birthday of HM Coastguard in 2022, and this exhibition celebrates the story of the Coastguard as one of the UK’s emergency services.
• A World at Sea – An Easter holidays event, meet mermaids, Detritus of the Deep and enjoy creative activities.
• Monsters of the Deep – Explore centuries old myths and legends of deep sea creatures.
• Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed – After nationally touring following its debut in 2017, this exhibition is back to showcase some of the key artworks.

3. SUP from Swanpool Beach

A trip to see this unique geographical phenomenon should definitely make it onto your itinerary of things to do in Falmouth.

A bar of sand and shingle thrown up by the sea blocked the entrance to a small creek, creating a freshwater lake and a lovely little beach.

Swanpool Beach is sheltered and, more often than not, has calm waters ideal for paddle boarding.

It’s one of our favourite things to do in Falmouth for the tranquillity paired with beautiful scenery.

SUP hire is available from Elemental UK Watersports. They operate all year round and have a variety of watersports equipment available to hire, including kayaks and canoes if SUP isn’t your thing.

Take a look at our Top 6 Places to Go Kayaking in Cornwall to find more beautiful locations to visit!

Browse over 150 cottages near Swanpool Beach.

4. Walk up to Pendennis Castle

Pendennis Castle is a mighty fortress that dominates the rocky headland above Falmouth.

This striking circular artillery fort is one of a handful of such castles built by Henry VIII.

Not only did the castle help defend Cornwall in Tudor times; it played an essential role in protecting the coast during both World Wars.

Explore the artillery and gun rooms, wander up the winding staircases, and take in the gorgeous panoramic views of Falmouth and the coast.

It’s one of the best things to do in Falmouth with little ones, as they can let off steam across the grassy grounds, and let their imaginations flourish in the castle setting!

5. Take a boat trip along the River Fal

Falmouth is, above everything, a natural harbour town. So, a trip to Falmouth without a boat trip would just be wrong in our opinion!

Enterprise Boats can take you on a journey from Falmouth up to Trelissick, calling in at the old-world fishing village of St Mawes along the way.

Their classic wooden ferries are dog-friendly and run 7 days a week between April and October. In 2022, there will also be a special high tide cruise up to the Cathedral city of Truro.

One of the best things to do in Falmouth for any keen anglers is a sea fishing excursion, while animal lovers can hop on a sea safaris to see dolphins and seals.

6. Eat out at Falmouth’s restaurants and cafés

Falmouth has a fantastic array of restaurants and eateries and, unsurprisingly, excellent seafood.

Pictured above is a seafood platter from The Shack, a rustic seafood restaurant in Events Square. Grab delicious and fresh crab, lobster, oysters, scallops and mussels – it’s seafood heaven!

Another of our favourite haunts is Boo Koos, an American-style restaurant serving up indulgent hamburgers, shakes and loaded fries. And they have vegan and veggie options too.

Find your ideal accommodation in Falmouth

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At Cornish Cottage Holidays, we have a great range of Falmouth holiday cottages in our portfolio.

Choose your ideal holiday cottage from which to explore the town and enjoy these awesome Falmouth things to do.

Browse Falmouth holiday cottages here!

Get to know some more idyllic coastal settings in Cornwall and read our article on fishing villages in Cornwall.

Falmouth also features on our list of the best vegan restaurants in Cornwall, so any herbivores should definitely check it out!

Image credits: Tim Green – CC BY 2.0; Tim Green – CC BY 2.0; Steve Parker – CC BY 2.0; Gareth Williams – CC BY 2.0; Falmouth Shack Ltd; Fal River Cornwall.