Still wondering what to do in Falmouth? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Falmouth and book your hotel today!
Falmouth, nestled on Cornwall's south coast, offers a rich maritime heritage and a substantial natural harbour, the third deepest in the world. It serves as a significant port for shipping and a popular destination for leisure craft, with its deep-water estuary forming a natural gateway to the Carrick Roads. The town is known for its strong connection to the sea, reflected in its historic docks and boat-building traditions.
Visitors often explore the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, which chronicles the region's seafaring past, or Pendennis Castle, an impressive fortress built by Henry VIII offering commanding views over the estuary and out to sea. The town's narrow streets house independent shops, galleries, and a selection of eateries, all contributing to its character as a working port town with a focus on its coastal environment.
For many visitors, the most convenient area to consider for accommodation in Falmouth is around the Events Square and Discovery Quay, offering easy access to the town's main attractions and the waterfront.
The town centre itself, stretching from the Custom House Quay up towards Church Street and Market Street, provides a range of hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments. This central area puts you within walking distance of the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, a focal point for the town’s seafaring history, and numerous independent shops and eateries like The Stable for pizzas or Rick Stein's Fish. Accommodation here is ideal for those who enjoy being in the thick of things, with cultural venues like The Poly offering films and live performances nearby.
Further along the coast, towards Gyllyngvase Beach and Swanpool Beach, you’ll find more hotels and B&Bs, often with sea views. This area is a good choice for those who appreciate immediate beach access and a slightly quieter atmosphere while still being only a pleasant walk or short bus ride from the town centre. Gylly Beach Cafe is a popular spot here for meals with a view.
For those considering proximity to Falmouth’s transport links, the main Falmouth Town station is centrally located, making it straightforward to reach if travelling by rail. Falmouth Docks station is further east, closer to Pendennis Castle, offering another option. If flying, Newquay Airport (NQY) is the closest major airport, approximately an hour's drive away, with various transfer options available. When choosing a hotel, it's worth noting the walking distance or local bus routes to these stations for onward journeys or connections.
When planning a trip to Falmouth, booking your accommodation shrewdly can certainly help manage costs. To find better deals, aim to visit outside of the busiest periods. Prices for hotels in Falmouth typically rise during the peak summer months of July and August, as well as over bank holidays and school breaks. The town's popular Falmouth Week, usually held in August, also sees a significant increase in demand and prices, so it's best to avoid this if you're looking to economise.
For more affordable stays, consider travelling in the quieter months. The low season, particularly November through February (excluding Christmas and New Year), often presents the best opportunities for lower rates. You might also find better value in March, April, May, September, and October, outside of specific school holidays. Booking well in advance, especially for any dates outside of the absolute low season, can also secure more favourable prices.