Falmouth
Falmouth is the principal resort of the Southern Cornish Riviera. It boasts one of the highest average sunshine records in Britain and in winter has a climate comparable to that of the Mediterranean. Located at the southern end of the Fal estuary, the town has beautifully laid out exotic gardens, a large vibrant harbour and a Tudor castle overlooking its bay. Other attractions include a growing arts centre and the state-of-the-art National Maritime Museum, which documents Falmouth's historic Cornish past and plays host to the town's cultural events. Falmouth's immediate surroundings are something of a naturalist's delight. The town lies close to the Lizard, Britain's most southerly point and an open, wild and largely untouched landscape. Further up the Fal estuary, the riverside is interspersed with tiny villages and hamlets, creeks and caves which may be seen by taking a river cruise from Falmouth. At the same time, the town affords swift access to more commercial areas, such as Truro, the acknowledged retail centre of Cornwall. Above all, Falmouth's unique mixture of relaxation and excitement appeals to all ages and tastes.
Hotels
We use the Madeira Hotel, a Leisureplex Hotel.
Town Centre
Falmouth is well-known for its fascinating mixture of buildings and shops. They vary from modern stores to much older listed buildings, often occupied by antique and craft shops, which lie in picturesque alleyways leading down to the harbour.
Beach and Gardens
Falmouth's main beach, Gylinvase, is a stretch of soft golden sand with excellent facilities and breathtaking views across the bay. Falmouth's gardens, which are found dotted around the town and extensively around its edge, are uniquely unusual and colourful and provide an excellent backdrop for reflection and relaxation.
Activities and Attractions
Tourist Information Tel:01326 312300
wwww.falmouth.co.uk
Falmouth Art Gallery Tel:01326 313863
The gallery was established in 1978 to house the town's permanent collection, mainly donated from private collectors such as Alfred De Pass.
www.falmouthartgallery.com
Pendennis Castle Tel:01326 316594
Follow the castle's history from Tudor times to the re-fortification in both world wars. See the museum, discovery centre and former secret installations.
www.english.heritage.co.uk
National Maritime Museum Tel:01326 313388
A former winner of Cornwall's Family Attraction of the Year, the museum features hands-on displays and maritime video footage.
www.nmmc.co.uk
Glendurgan Gardens Tel:01326 250906
One of the greatest sub-tropical gardens of the South West. Exotic trees and shrubs flourish amidst the open glades carpeted with wild flowers.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Trebah Gardens Tel:01326 252200
A dramatically beautiful 26 acre sub-tropical garden. The wooded ravine is filled with glades of 100 year old trees mingled with rhododendrons and magnolias, cascading waterfalls and narrow streams.
www.trebahgarden.co.uk
Events
Falmouth Week Held in August, main events are yacht racing, regattas and live music.
www.falmouthweek.co.uk
Falmouth Classics is a series of maritime events held throughout the summer.
Fal River Festival A celebration of the culture and heritage of the Fal Estuary is held in May.
www.falriverfestival.co.uk
Truro Carnival is held over the second weekend in September and features street entertainers, samba dancers, carnival parade and fireworks finale.
www.trurocitycarnival.com
Daphne Du Maurier Festival Held in May at Fowey, the festival features ten days of drama, music, talks and guided walks.
www.dumaurierfestival.co.uk
Helston's Flora Day Tel:01326 565431
In May, thousands of visitors descend upon the town to spectate or take part in the ancient Flora dance, where everybody wears formal dress and the children are adorned in white.
www.helston-online.co.uk
For a summary of events in the region see:
www.visit-westcornwall.com
Excursions from Falmouth
The details below are intended as a general guide only. For specific tour details, first check Availability and then follow the link from the Tour Description.
St Ives is one of Britain's most picturesque towns with steep, winding streets leading down to its bustling harbour. The town is a haven for artists and even boasts its own Tate Gallery.
www.stives-cornwall.co.uk
Newquay is Cornwall's largest holiday resort and boasts some of the finest coastline and beaches in Europe.
www.visitnewquaycornwall.co.uk/
Padstow is a charming fishing village on the Camel Estuary. The village and its peaceful surroundings was an area made famous by the late Poet Laureate, John Betjeman.
www.padstow.com
Land's End Renowned for its breathtaking rugged beauty, Land's End also has a well-developed tourist centre and theme park which provides entertainment, refreshments and restaurants.
www.landsend-landmark.co.uk
National Seal Sanctuary Tel:01326 221361
Situated near Helston, the sanctuary is Europe's leading marine animal rescue centre, which cares for dozens of sick, injured and orphaned seals every year.
www.sealsanctuary.co.uk
Trevarno Estate Gardens - Helston Tel:01326 574274
A garden experience that combines Victorian and Georgian gardens with a fountain, garden conservatory, workshops and museum.
www.trevarno.co.uk
Truro This former tin-mining town has flourished over the centuries into the thriving administrative centre of today. With the Victorian cathedral as its centrepiece and numerous historic buildings, including the Royal Cornwall Museum and City Hall, its range of markets and tranquil parks and gardens, Truro makes for an ideal day out.
www.truro.gov.uk
St Michael's Mount - Marazion Tel:01736 710507
Perched astride a volcanic rock, this romantic castle/house dates from the 12th Century.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
The Lizard Peninsula A stunningly beautiful stretch of coastline, interspersed with picturesque coves, charming fishing villages and tiny hamlets. There is an abundance of wildlife and a constant profusion of colour; thanks to the mild climate it is not unusual to spot camellias open in December or daffoldils in January!
www.thelizard.co.uk