Falmouth

Falmouth  Picture 1

image by Matt Jessop - supplied by Visit Cornwall 

 

Falmouth is Cornwall’s leading South West Coast Resort and home to the County’s Maritime Heritage. Here you will find sandy golden beaches, spectacular scenery, specialist shops from local art to antiques and exceptional sailing in Carrick Roads and the Fal Estuary.

Henry VIII built Pendennis Castle to defend the Carrick Roads in 1540, which, together with St Mawes Castle on the east side meant that the estuary entrance was well guarded. Sir John Killigrew created the town of Falmouth shortly after 1613, which received a charter from Charles II in 1661. A new church was consecrated in 1665 and there was soon a cluster of a few hundred homes around the Church of “King Charles the Martyr”.

In 1688, Falmouth was made the Royal Mail packet station. In 1805, the news of Britain's victory (and Admiral Nelson's death) at Trafalgar was landed here at the steps of Fishstrand Quay from the schooner, H.M.S. Pickle and taken to London by stagecoach.

The development of Falmouth Docks began in 1858 with the first ship entering in 1861. The railway reached the town soon after, in 1863. This brought prosperity and also tourism to the town. Perhaps surprisingly, Falmouth boasts three railway stations; Falmouth Docks, Falmouth Town and Penmere.

Upcoming Events

The Gin to My Tonic Festival - Saturday 19 July 2025

The Gin To My Tonic Gin, Rum & Vodka Festival Falmouth. Princess Pavilion. 19th July 2025
THE BEST CRAFT GIN, RUM & VODKA FESTIVAL IN FALMOUTH & CORNWALL. MEET & SAMPLE WITH THE BEST CRAFT DISTILLERS. 

For more details & Tickets click here.

Falmouth Week - Friday 08 August 2025 to Sunday 17 August 2025

Falmouth Week is a major attraction for locals and visitors alike. With its origins as a local sailing regatta dating back as far as 1837, the week has evolved into one of the major sailing competitions in the South West as well as an opportunity for sailors and landlubbers to enjoy the many daytime and evening activities in the town.

There is so much to see and do at Falmouth Week…  

For more details see website