Top Ten unique Falmouth attractions

Discover Falmouth attractions that make this town super unique. Nestled along the southwest coast of Cornwall, the historic port town of Falmouth stands out for its rich maritime heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. With its deep natural harbour, castle fortifications, creative arts scene, and idyllic beaches, Falmouth has plenty to offer visitors, residents, and potential students. Here are ten things to do in Falmouth that make this Cornish town truly unique and a great place to live and study for students at Falmouth university.

1. Falmouth Harbour

The best Falmouth attraction is the Falmouth harbour by a long shot. One of the largest natural harbours in the world. Falmouth Harbour stretches across nearly 30 square miles. Its deep waters have made it a strategic port since the 16th century. Today, the harbour remains a hub of maritime activity, with cruise ships, luxury yachts, and commercial vessels cruising its waters. Watching the boats come and go at Falmouth docks against a scenic backdrop of rolling hills and castles makes for an unforgettable sight.

2. National Maritime Museum

Celebrating Falmouth’s maritime history, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall explores the region’s relationship with the sea. Exhibits highlight Falmouth’s role in voyages of scientific discovery, wartime efforts, and more. Visitors can also climb aboard historic vessels, including a floating packet ship from the 1800s. From boatbuilding to deep-sea diving, Falmouth maritime museum covers over three centuries of incredible history.

3. Pendennis Castle

Falmouth attractions don’t get better than Pendennis Castle. Constructed by Henry VIII, this artillery fort guarded the strategically important Carrick Roads waterway. Pendennis Castle’s stout defences protected against foreign naval attacks. Visitors can walk the ramparts and explore the half-moon gun platforms for stunning panoramas over the harbour. The onsite museum also provides insight into the castle’s 450-year history and its vital coastal defence role.

4. Falmouth University

Known for its pioneering creative arts programmes, Falmouth University has helped put this seaside town on the map. The diverse student community and innovative research centres, such as the Marine Hub, have created a vibrant, youthful atmosphere. Collaborations with local businesses and organisations ensure the university maintains strong ties to the region. It’s no wonder Falmouth was recently named one of the top universities in the Southwest.

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5. Beautiful Falmouth Beaches

With a picturesque coastline, Falmouth, Cornwall, is surrounded by beautiful beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Gyllyngvase Beach boasts fine white sands with views of Pendennis Castle. Swanpool Beach is a sheltered swimming spot near a nature reserve. Or try Maenporth Beach, with its clear waters, seaside cafe, and nearby coastal path. The balmy weather means Falmouth beaches can be enjoyed for much of the year.

6. Festivals and Events

If you’re looking for things to see in Falmouth, there are plenty of festivals and events. Music, food, and maritime heritage are all celebrated here. The Falmouth Oyster Festival pays homage to the town’s oyster-fishing trade with live shanty singing, cooking demos, and oyster-shucking contests. The Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival sees performers from around the world take over pubs with rollicking maritime songs. There are also arts, beer, and fish festivals…a perfect blend of history and culture.

7. Subtropical Gardens

The warm Gulf Stream nurtures exotic plant life in Falmouth’s celebrated gardens. At Trebah Garden, delicately scented rhododendrons and vibrant camellias thrive alongside Mediterranean palms and banana plants, set amidst lush hillside landscapes. Glendurgan Garden’s stunning views overlook the River Helford all the way to the ocean. Wander through its maze and sample fruits in an orchard over 180 years old. These gardens showcase plants usually found much further south.

8. Sailing and Watersports Falmouth

One of the most popular Falmouth attractions is the water sports. With ideal winds, tides, and coastal scenery, the Falmouth area is a sailor’s paradise. The town has a number of sailing clubs and most of the harbour is available for public use. From kayaking to stand-up paddleboarding, the ocean, rivers, and inlets provide the perfect conditions to enjoy the water. Whether you’re an enthusiast or just starting out, Falmouth has the facilities, instruction, and environment to get on the waves.

9. Historic Falmouth Pubs and Inns

At inns and pubs like The Chain Locker and The Seven Stars, soaking up history is as easy as sipping a pint. Dating from the 17th century, The Chain Locker was named after the huge chain that was drawn across the Harbour for protection. The Seven Stars is one of the last traditional free houses in Falmouth. Seven generations of the same family have been landlords and landladies here, dating right back to 1853, making this one of the most unique Falmouth attractions.

10. Iconic Cornish Food

From Cornish pasties to homemade cream teas, the cuisine also makes Falmouth unique. Tradition states that the crimped edge of a pasty allowed tin miners to hold their meal in dirty hands. Try an innovative twist on the classic at the Dog and Smuggler pub. And sample clotted cream piled high on freshly baked scones at Dolly’s Tea Room for an authentic Cornish cream tea experience.

With its rich maritime atmosphere, subtropical beauty, and vibrant spirit, Falmouth offers visitors an unforgettable and uniquely Cornish experience. The history, culture, and landscape of this harbour town provide endless opportunities for discovery and fun.

Student accommodation in Falmouth

If you are a student looking to study here, or you are already a Falmouth university student looking for student accommodation in Falmouth,  check out our accommodation to secure your new home today. We offer a range of rooms to suit all students needs.