Falmouth cottages

Falmouth at a glance

Make yourself at home at one of our contemporary holiday lets within a short walk of the beach and:

• Spend a day sunbathing and sampling the local ice cream at Gyllyngvase Beach. Try paddleboarding, kayaking, or beach yoga before joining the locals for a casual beach BBQ. 
• Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Falmouth’s town centre, with all its restaurants, cafes, bars, artisan shops, and galleries. 
• Step back in time as you wander through the ancient walls of Pendennis Castle. From the gun decks to the tower, every corner tells a story of centuries gone by. 
• Experience one of Falmouth’s renowned events, such as the annual Sea Shanty Festival, Falmouth Regatta, the Oyster Festival, or Falmouth Week.

Beach life

Gyllyngvase Beach

Lovingly named Gylly Beach by the locals, the white sandy beach, with its shallow water and the stunning backdrop of the seafront and Pendennis Castle, attracts visitors from near and far. 

Beach activities

Hire paddleboards or kayaks directly on the beach, or, if you’re a beginner, book a lesson with an experienced instructor. Gylly Adventure also offers regular caves and shipwreck kayak adventures and SUP yoga sessions. 

Beach cafes

Gylly Beach Cafe enjoys stunning views across the beach, and in addition to its large indoor space, there’s also an outdoor seating area with a roof and even heaters for the colder days of the year. The kiosk right opposite has its own bakery and offers everything you need for a day on the beach.

Swanpool Beach

A little smaller than neighbouring Gylly Beach, the sandy cove is sheltered by the surrounding cliffs and ideal for swimming and kayaking. Swanpool Beach Cafe offers a wonderful selection of quirky ice cream creations.

Maenporth Beach

Only a short drive away, you can find Maenporth Beach, another sandy beach ideal for families, which features its own surf school and cafe. Try The Cove restaurant opposite for an exquisite lunch or dining experience with a sea view. 

Dog-Friendly Beaches and Restrictions 

Between 15 May and 30 September, from 10am to 6pm, dogs are not allowed on Falmouth’s beaches, but they are dog friendly from 1 October to 14 May. 

Lifeguards

Lifeguard services are available from May to September on Gylly Beach.

Where to eat and drink

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure in Falmouth’s extensive cafe and dining scene. Our favourites are: 

Beach House Falmouth

For fresh seafood with glorious views across Swanpool Beach. 

The Star & Garter

A cosy gastro pub, especially loved for its Sunday roast. 

INDIDOG Harbourside Restaurant

A stylish restaurant just off the high street, sitting on the harbour wall and offering gorgeous views over the water. 

The Shed

A gregarious restaurant and bar with kitsch decorative touches and classic British dishes. 

Breakfast

Gylly Beach Café and Good Vibes Café 

Visit The Chintz for a quirky bar experience.

Coastal walks

Gyllyngvase to Swanpool Coastal Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastline from Gyllyngvase Beach to Swanpool Beach. 

Pendennis Point to Castle Walk

Embark on a historic, scenic adventure by walking along the coast from Gyllyngvase Beach to Pendennis Point. From there, follow the coastal path as it winds its way to Pendennis Castle, enjoying the panoramic views of Falmouth Harbour and the surrounding landscape. 

South West Coast Path: Swanpool Beach to Maenporth Beach

For a longer and more adventurous walk, venture onto the South West Coast Path from Falmouth to Maenporth. The coast path can be found by walking past Swanpool Beach and Hooked on the Rocks Restaurant. You will then find the path sign on your left. 

This trail offers breathtaking vistas of rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and rolling hills. Before heading back, take a break at Life’s a Beach Cafe.

Things to do in Falmouth

National Maritime Museum

The award-winning museum is set right on the waterfront and overlooks the harbour. Learn about Cornwall’s maritime heritage and admire ship models, paintings, and the personal belongings of famous explorers. During school holidays, children can take part in interactive classes and workshops. 

Visit Pendennis Castle

The 16th-century artillery fort is situated on Falmouth’s headland and was built by Henry VIII to protect against invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire. Learn about the fort’s history and explore the castle’s fortifications, interactive exhibits, and displays. 

Visit the gardens

Near Falmouth, you will find Trebah Garden and Glendurgan Garden along Helford River, featuring exotic plant collections from all across the world. The gardens are adjacent to the river, one of Cornwall’s most scenic areas. 

Boat trip to St Mawes

Take a boat trip to the picturesque village of St Mawes and admire Falmouth, the coastline, and stunning villas from the water. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins or other marine wildlife.

For families

• Little children love the playground in Kimberley Park, Falmouth 
• Let off steam at the indoor playground Raze the Roof in Penryn (4 miles)
• See seals, penguins, and otters at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek (10 miles)
• Get into the groove at the roller disco in Redruth (12 miles)
• Join Family Swim Time at Carn Brea Leisure Pool (12.5 miles)

Interested in alternative locations in Cornwall? Discover the idyllic charm of Gorran Haven in South Cornwall with our collection of self-catering holiday cottages, perfect for a peaceful retreat by the sea.