Falmouth Hotels

From smugglers to surfers, people throughout the ages have been drawn to Falmouth. Beaches, coves, gardens and castles make this a beautiful base from which to explore the wild Cornish countryside.

The historic and the modern meet at the popular National Maritime Museum. You can explore the area's seafaring history through the interactive displays and well-stocked library. Hunt out the world's first submarine - a replica of Cornelius Drebbel's wooden, four-oared, underwater rowing machine from 1620 in the Under the Sea exhibit. Alternatively, simply catch views of the harbour from the Look Out. There are more sea views from the 16th-century Pendennis Castle, home to a warren of underground tunnels and a recreated Tudor gun deck.

Browse antiques shops and boutiques from Falmouth's winding High Street or shop for local produce at The Moor, where there's a well-stocked farmers' market every Tuesday. Stock up on everything from luggage to arts and crafts in West Country department store Trago on the harbourside.

The warming Gulf Stream means that Falmouth is a great British area for sub-tropical gardens. Stroll from formal gardens of Gyllyngdune, down the grotto walkway to the seafront. Relax on pretty Gyllyngvase Beach, or buy a home-made ice-cream and walk along the beachfront promenade.

Culture vultures will love The Poly, Falmouth's home for independent cinema, art and design. Catch international theatre and big-name acts at the Princess Pavilion Theatre, set high above the town in the leafy grounds of Gyllyngdune Gardens.

There's nothing like dining on fresh-from-the-ocean seafood while looking out over Falmouth's natural harbour from the grand Greenbank Hotel. Feast on local meat and fish in the pubs and restaurants of rural Mawnan Smith or try a traditional cream tea on the busy High Street.

Watch the sun set over the coves and bays of the Falmouth coast from one of the many local sailing tours.