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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.
Organised by the Falmouth Royal Naval Association with support from Falmouth Town Council, Sea Sunday is a cherished occasion that unites veterans, civic guests, local groups, and residents in celebrating Falmouth’s proud maritime heritage. It’s a time to honour and give thanks to seafarers past and present for their vital role in our lives. Watch the procession march through town towards a special church service paying tribute to all who live and work at sea.
The prestigious Dragon Boat Race returns to Falmouth bringing a free weekend spectacle that promises to be truly exhilarating as teams compete across both days for the race’s coveted titles. Whether you’re cheering from the shoreline, celebrating victory, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, it’s an event not to be missed.
Parklive is a series of 6 free live music and performance events hosted by Falmouth/Penryn based community radio station Source FM in Kimberley Park on the last Sunday afternoon of each month from April to September. Parklive showcases the wide range of creative talent living in the Falmouth area.
The event is community centred and open to local families, residents and visitors to enjoy. We aim to provide entertainment and activities for people of all ages, and for volunteers to learn new skills and make new friends by being part of our event team. Parklive is a great opportunity for new and established local musicians to perform in a relaxed and fun festival atmosphere.
Parklive is back for the 13th Year
As the summer holidays get underway, take in the breathtaking sights of Falmouth from above with the Falmouth Observation Wheel. Running throughout August on Events Square, this spectacular attraction offers 360° panoramic views across the water and town, giving visitors a unique chance to experience Falmouth from a rarely seen aerial perspective. Organised by
the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, the Observation Wheel is the perfect way to add a little adventure to your summer and see the harbour in a whole new light.
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…
Make sure you join in with the Pink Wig Mermaid March and Falmouth Carnival to kickstart Falmouth Week! Or, explore the wide variety of family friendly activities in the heart of Falmouth on The Moor and Events Square, including a vintage hand-turned carousel, music from local musicians, an eclectic market, Falmouth Art Gallery workshops and a buzzing atmosphere! There’s also a full week of evening entertainment within the Waterfront Marquee organised by Southwest Bars and Events, ranging from the famous 80’s and 00’s night to Ska night!
* Falmouth's Free Festival!
* Keep Parklive Alive!
* Sundays in the Park!
Parklive is a series of 6 free live music and performance events hosted by Falmouth/Penryn based community radio station Source FM in Kimberley Park on the last Sunday afternoon of each month from April to September. Parklive showcases the wide range of creative talent living in the Falmouth area.
The event is community centred and open to local families, residents and visitors to enjoy. We aim to provide entertainment and activities for people of all ages, and for volunteers to learn new skills and make new friends by being part of our event team. Parklive is a great opportunity for new and established local musicians to perform in a relaxed and fun festival atmosphere.