Falmouth Vacations: What To See and Do When You Visit Falmouth in Cornwall

The port and town of Falmouth is located on the River Fal and is on England’s south coast in the County of Cornwall.  It boasts the third deepest natural harbor in the world and because of this, it has been the start and end point for many voyages across the world's oceans. Sir Francis Chichester and Dame Ellen MacArthur both carried out record breaking attemps starting from Falmouth. But it isn't just the town that is interesting there are plenty of fascinating attractions when you visit Falmouth.

A baby seal, found on the beach at St Agnes, caused the National Seal Sanctuary to open here in 1958. The sanctuary was based in St Agnes until 1975 when the single pool used for keeping the seals and injured sea birds in was not large enough. It was at this time the sanctuary then moved to Gweek and its owner Ken increased the number of pools and their sizes so that they could care for more seals which were being rescued of the Cornish coast. 

The seals are cared for with a view to returning them to the wild as soon as possible.  However, you will also find a number of these wonderful sea creatures have remained because they are simply too badly injured or will not be able to cope with being returned to the wild.

Just south east of Falmouth is Pendennis Castle which is situated across the harbor from its castle St Mawes. Both castles were built in the time of the Tudors and were built to form a defensive chain along the south coast during the reign of Henry VIII. These castles were built to act as a deterrent against either the French or Spanish invading England. 

Pendennis castle has been used regularly over the years and this means that it is still in excellent shape. During the reign of Elizabeth the First the castle was further strengthened and was again utilized during the Civil War by the Royalist’s and was their last stronghold to fall. The castle was also used during both World Wars and today the guardhouse and the underground tunnels and magazines from these wars remain. You can also visit the Tudor Keep which has seen the recreation of a gun deck.

Close to Falmouth is the Lizard Peninsula, the most southern point in England and even though Land's End is often thought to hold this position. Lizard Point has plenty of things for you to do and see from the Goonhilly Earth Station with the satellite dishes that stand out. Plus as you walk along the National Trust owned costal path look towards the see you may spot some seals or dolphins and even possibly a basking shark.

In Falmouth itself there are plenty of attractions that visitors to this coastal town can enjoy. One such attraction is Trebah Gardens which are located on the outskirts of Falmouth near to the village of Mawnan Smith. The whole garden covers a total of around 25 acres and feature a wide selection of plant life. But along with the plants there is a large pond, a waterfall and private beach area as well. 

If you get hungry during your time in the gardens, there is a cafe for you to sit down and take in some refreshments. Plus if you find the children are getting a little bored just exploring the gardens then take them to the playground to let off some steam. The gardens are open through the year although the times of opening and closing do differ.  

Make sure to book your next Falmouth hotel from this list.