Things to do in Falmouth- everything you need to know for your trip. Here is a break down, including the best places to stay, top things to do in Falmouth and a packing list for the perfect holiday.
- Tourism in Falmouth- an overview
- Is Falmouth worth visiting?
- The best places to stay in Falmouth
- Falmouth packing list
- Top things to do in Falmouth
- Unusual things to do in Falmouth
- Things to do in Falmouth in the rain
- Things to do in Falmouth with dogs
- Things to do around Falmouth
- Things to do in Falmouth- further reading
Tourism in Falmouth- an overview
Tourism in Falmouth is hugely significant, attracting roughly 500,000 seasonal visitors annually. This just goes to show that tourism is a huge part of Falmouth’s economy. Tourism amounts to a huge £1.8 billion to Cornwall as a whole, and with Falmouth being the 5th most visited place in Cornwall, it definitely supplies a large amount.
Is Falmouth worth visiting?
Falmouth is definitely worth visiting. Aside from being a stunning location, it’s an award winning town, credited by GB high St with ‘Best Coastal community’. Falmouth is in third place for the largest natural harbour…in the world! So, with its unique and beautiful nature it is sure to win you over!
The best places to stay in Falmouth
The best places to stay in Falmouth. You’re looking for the best quality accommodations in Falmouth? Well here they are! You’re sure to find a match for any price range in this selection of the top rated accommodation.
St Michaels resort
St Michaels resort boasts stunning luxury facilities, just opposite Gyllyngvase Beach. The view from the window is extraordinary, with ocean views over the downs of Falmouth. Indulge in the amazing self care facilities featuring a heated pool, spa, yoga classes and mani-pedis. This makes St Michaels resort the perfect wellness tourism destination! Click here to find out more.
Falmouth View
Falmouth View definitely lives up to the name. With an exceptional view over the harbour, it really makes the cosy accommodation all the more special. Enjoy excellent service throughout the accommodation, as well as top facilities including a fully equipped kitchen, balcony and flat screen TV. Click here to find out more.
The Hideaway
The Hideaway is a peaceful little cottage in Falmouth surrounded by beautiful green land. As soon as you step in you feel at home with its cosy aesthetic, boasting a fireplace, polished wood furnishings and a gorgeously comfy bed. The Hideaway provides amazing facilities including a patio and dining area, making it the perfect secluded getaway! Click here to find out more.
Blankednick Nook
Blankednick Nook is set in a beautifully picturesque part of Falmouth, surrounded by vast woodland. This accommodation is classic with a modern twist, boasting a fireplace, patio and BBQ facilities. You’re sure to feel wonderful in the natural light that fills the rooms, as well as basking in the great outdoors just a step away. Click here to find out more.
Trecombe lakes
Trecombe lake is one of the most amazing eco tourism accommodations just outside of Falmouth. It hosts a stunning array of eco pods, whose interior is decorated beautifully. The setting is gorgeous, surrounded by ponds, greenland and fields that seem to stretch on forever into the horizon. Enjoy the BBQ facilities on the patio, the stunning views and the adventure playground for the little ones. Click here to find out more.
Falmouth packing list
You know the basics of a packing list, but have you ever wondered what a Falmouth packing list looks like? Keep reading to find out more!
Sun cream
I know it sounds like an obvious one, but sun cream is so important for those sunny beach days! Make sure you stay protected at all times with a high SPF sun cream.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are an essential for Falmouth. So get rid of that eye strain from the sun and look stylish in your pair of sunnies. Here are some recommendations for:
Camera
Sometimes those blurry phone shots don’t do a location justice. It’s time to crack out the camera and capture the moment with as much beauty as you behold with your eyes! Click here for recommendations.
Goggles
Goggles are great for a dive in the ocean without the addition of sore eyes. Make sure you stay protected with some goggles, you can even buy UV protected ones to prevent sun damage.! Find them here.
Towel in a carry bag
Going to the beach can cause a hefty bag full of everyone’s towels, costumes and clothes. A towel in a carry bag is compact, efficient and sustainable, so there’s no need for towels to take up a huge space in the suitcase. Click here for details.
Top things to do in Falmouth
Here are the top things to do in Falmouth! You’re sure to have an amazing time with all of its culture, history, beautiful beaches and gardens.
Swanpool Beach
Swanpool Beach is one of Falmouth’s natural wonders. Credited with ‘travellers choice 2021’ it’s one of the top things to do in Falmouth. It’s a perfect stop off for those sunny Cornish days, boasting fresh turquoise seas and a sandy beach. Right behind the beach lies the Swanpool nature reserve, where you can feed the swans and ducks.
Glendurgan gardens
Glendurgan gardens is a truly magical place to visit in Falmouth. Owned by the National trust, this site of natural wonder stretches 300 acres of stunning wildlife! Enjoy finding your way out of the huge ‘Adventure maze’, planted in 1833 and labelled the ‘living puzzle’ of Glendurgan. Then explore the ‘Wonderful Wildflowers’ garden, rich with species of flowers including bluebells, white orchids and gladioli.
Pendennis Castle
Pendennis Castle, owned by English Heritage, was built by Henry VIII to defend the British from attack. Wonder around the amazing site to find the original historic weaponry, including canons and the half moon battery where ammunition was previously stored. Stop off at the kids soft play area if you have little ones to entertain, and then have lunch in the pretty little café with a wide selection of food and drink.
Unusual things to do in Falmouth
Weird, unique, quirky, but always fun! Here are the best unusual things to do in Falmouth. Keep reading to find out more…
Bodmin Jail
Bodmin jail has a dark history of criminal past from when it was established in 1779, to when it closed in 1929. The remaining parts of the prison have been restored and turned into a spectacular tourist attraction where you can take a paranormal tour and watch a film in the ‘scary cinema’. It’s definitely a great option for families with a love for all things scary, and of course this makes it one of the most unusual things to do in Falmouth!
Falmouth river watersports
Falmouth river water sports allows you to embrace the Cornish seas with a quirky twist. Rent out a paddle board or kayak for the duration of an hour to a whole day if you’d like! Its definitely one of the best things to do in Falmouth, it’s a truly amazing experience that puts you to the challenge, whilst enjoying the fresh air!
Orca Sea Safaris
Orca sea safaris offers an experience like no other, it truly is one of the most unusual, yet intriguing things to do in Falmouth. You will travel by the Seaquest boat along Falmouth’s coast to uncover the stunning views of the Carrick roads. All of this whilst on the lookout for a spot at the beautiful wildlife including whales, dolphins and seals.
Things to do in Falmouth in the rain
What are the best things to do in Falmouth in the rain? Those glum days need an upside right? Luckily you’re covered here! Continue reading to find the best things to do in Falmouth in the rain.
National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum spans 5 floors of oceanic history, and explores how the sea has shaped the culture of the Cornish region. Perfect for a rainy day indoors, its exhibits tell tales of the amazing boats that saved lives, and the hero’s tales too. There are a total of 15 galleries which showcase history across Cornwall, one of these being The Falmouth gallery, where you can learn about how it came to become the maritime hub of an empire in the 1800s.
Falmouth Art gallery
The Falmouth Art gallery is filled with amazing exhibit’s which is great for a look around, rain or shine. They have previously hosted an array of iconic artists, illustrators and poets including Andy Warhol, Peter Blake, Patrick Caufield, Partou Zia, Quentin Blake and Spike Milligan. There is always such an amazing display of creativity found within the Falmouth Art gallery walls, so I urge you to get in on the action and discover new ideas and perception!
Star glazers
Star glazers is a beautiful pottery painting café, sure to brighten up those grey days! This is one of the best things to do in Falmouth to Relax and rewind. Paint whatever pottery piece you choose, on your own or with the family. They even provide personalised pottery to make a unique gift or memorabilia to take away and cherish.
Raze the roof indoor play centre
Raze the roof indoor play centre is one of the best things to do in Tenby for the family. This soft play area is perfect for rainy days, and is guaranteed to be loved by your little ones.
Things to do in Falmouth with dogs
Looking for the best things to do in Falmouth with dogs? Luckily Falmouth is a very dog friendly area and provides accommodations, cafes and parks all at your pups leisure.
Falmouth Dog park
Falmouth dog park is one of the best things to do in Falmouth with a dog! It is a friendly and safe place for dogs to enjoy, open from dawn to 8pm. The 1.6 acre park boasts a total of three dog play areas, all of which are filled with sand. On the site there are water bubblers for your pups after they play, as well as waste disposal bins, so your dog is sure to have an amazing time here!
Stay at The Kiddly
The Kiddly is an amazing dog friendly accommodation, just a short walk to Gyllyngvase beach, making it ideal for dog walks. The quaint little apartment is cosy and stunningly decorated, with an ocean view and amazing facilities. Click here to find out more.
Five West
Five West is a dog friendly restaurant in Falmouth. It’s perfect for a grab to eat, with unique cuisine combined with family favourites, making it one of the best things to do in Falmouth when you visit. Stop off after a walk with the dog and let them be treated with a doggy goodie bag, and of course treat yourself with the delicious selection!
Things to do around Falmouth
Flambards
Just a thirty minute drive from Falmouth, Flambards is one of the best things to do in Falmouth for the family. This theme park is top notch for all ages, including exhilarating rides such as the thunderbolt and sky force. For the little ones there is the carousel, rocking tug boat and so much more to discover!
Vibrant Historical walking tour through Falmouth
‘The Vibrant Historical walking tour through Falmouth’ is an exceptional 5 star tour, lasting 1 hour and a half. It explores the vast history of Falmouth, uncovering a world of pirates, voyages and adventures. Its at an amazing price of only £14, so its an incredible offer to learn so much whilst having the best time! Its definitely one of the best things to do in Falmouth, so discover it here.
Rock Pool Project
The Rock pool project is a great eco tourism day out, as well as one of the best things to do in Falmouth. Join the blue recovery project and unite with others to discover the beautiful range of creatures that lie within the rock pools. You will be led by an expert marine biologist, where you will become educated on wildlife you have never seen before, all in one amazing session.
South West Coastal Path – Marazion to Mevagissey
The South West Coastal Path is an amazing way to discover every element of Cornwall’s natural beauty. Spanning over 8 days, this private tour will take you from Marazion to Mevagissey, including accommodation, transport, and meals. Trek through miles of beautiful scenery stretching along the South West coastal path, including The Lizard and Roseland Peninsula, as well as the Pendennis castle in Falmouth. To find out more about this amazing experience click here.
Things to do in Falmouth- further reading
If you enjoyed this article on the things to do in Falmouth then I am sure you will enjoy these too-
- Tourism in Cornwall visitor guide- The best things to do in Cornwall
- Tourism in the Isle of Wight- what you need to know for your trip
- The Best Safari Parks in the UK
- 10 must-see Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK
- Things to do in Burnham on Sea