Falmouth, one of Cornwall’s most beloved destinations, has always been shaped by the sea. You can hear it in the shanties that echo through its pubs, see it in the swimmers that frequent its beautiful beaches, and taste it in the day’s catch served up in its best restaurants.
The third deepest natural harbour in the world, Falmouth’s maritime heyday was between the 17th and 19th centuries, when it was a hive of sailing ships, traders, and prosperous merchants who made their fortunes from Cornwall’s mining industry. It’s also been the start and end point for some of the world’s most remarkable voyages.
Today, Falmouth’s maritime past continues to shape the identity of the town as much as its modern residents and community.
As a result, Falmouth is still a mecca for seafaring folk and those with a love of the ocean, and its art galleries, independent shops, and cultural events are a reflection of a creative spirit that remains closely tied to the water.
In this guide, we invite you to discover the best of the town through an exploration of its maritime history and maritime-inspired activities.
Falmouth’s maritime history
Including tales of piracy, Civil War skirmishes, and its status as the prestigious base for London’s packet ships, Falmouth’s maritime history spans almost 700 years.
Pendennis Castle
Originally known as Smithwick, up until the Tudor period, Falmouth was little more than a collection of fishermen’s cottages. In 1540, Pendennis Castle was built by King Henry VIII, one of many coastal defensive fortresses built to defend England from attack from the Roman Empire. However, the castle wouldn’t see any action until it was used to stave off Cromwell’s forces during the English Civil War a century later.
The Killigrew family
Falmouth was founded by Sir John Killigrew in 1613, after Sir Walter Raleigh recognised the potential of the area as a deep-water harbour while assessing the castle. The Killigrew family were wealthy landowners with links to piracy, known for looting ships in the English Channel. However, they still held favour in the English court and were later commissioned as privateers by Queen Elizabeth I to attack ships from the Spanish Armada.
Falmouth Docks
Following the departure of the packet ships, Falmouth Docks was built in 1860 to halt the decline of the town. The banks of the River Fal had long been used by traditional boatbuilders, but now huge steam ships could enter the harbour for upgrades and repairs. Today, you’ll often see huge tankers and Royal Navy ships based there for upgrades. Falmouth Docks is also home to Pendennis Shipyard, where superyachts are built and restored.
Falmouth Packet Ships
Over the coming decades, alehouses and trading posts sprang up across the town, with its proximity to the Atlantic and English Channel making it a convenient stop-off point for seafarers. In 1688, Falmouth was appointed the Royal Mail Packet Station, at a time when all mail to and from the British Empire was transported by sail-powered ships. Falmouth grew, and as its prosperity drew more affluent people to the area, grand Georgian houses (many of which remain today) were built by wealthy merchants and packet ship captains.
Maritime-inspired activities in Falmouth
Many of the best things to do in Falmouth are linked to Falmouth’s maritime history and maritime life.
Pendennis Castle
One of the best castles in Cornwall, Pendennis Castle still stands guard over the Carrick Roads with sweeping panoramic views over the river and out to sea. A fantastic day out for the whole family, visitors can learn about what life was like for the Tudor soldiers living there, complete the Castle Explorer’s family trail, and see weapons from the Tudor, Napoleonic, Victorian and 20th-century eras.
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
To learn more about the history of Falmouth (and wider Cornwall) and its links to the sea, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall is a must-visit. The town’s story is told through a range of objects, pictures, and models in exhibitions that span five floors and fifteen galleries. For children, interactive workshops, an underwater viewing window, and model boat racing are key highlights.
The museum is also home to the National Small Boat Collection, featuring boats from around the world, including everything from Inuit kayaks to famous boats from world-record-breaking voyages.
Falmouth Docks
Walk the circular 2.5-mile route from Falmouth town around Pendennis headland and towards the beach for elevated views over the docks. A crucial employer for Falmouth locals and a key part of Falmouth’s history, you’ll often see mighty ships in for repairs while enjoying great views over the harbour and towards Flushing.
Falmouth river cruise
Unlock the beauty of the Fal River with a guided cruise from Falmouth to Truro. Along the way, you’ll spot local wildlife and historic houses and get a closer look at local maritime activity. Alternatively, catch the ferry to St Mawes for a shorter trip. When ashore, you’ll discover a pretty harbour town, beautiful coastal walks, and Pendennis’ sister castle.
Paint the seascapes
If you’re feeling creative, there are plenty of beautiful lookout points to inspire your next work of art. Falmouth’s seascapes and local life have been inspiring artists for centuries, which you’ll see reflected in its independent shops and art galleries. If you’d prefer an organised artistic experience with the support of an expert, there are plenty of workshops to discover in our art lover’s guide to Falmouth.
Go on a walking tour
There are many beautiful walks in and around Falmouth, but for the best insight into the town’s maritime heritage, book onto the Falmouth Uncovered History Tour with Pirate Will. You’ll be introduced to the town’s famous landmarks and discover swashbuckling anecdotes (involving both pirates and local high society!)
Visit the Helford River
Falmouth’s maritime history is deeply intertwined with the Helford River (which inspired Daphne Du Maurier’s swashbuckling romance Frenchman’s Creek). For a deeper exploration of the area’s maritime heritage (including classic boat building) and some of the most beautiful landscapes in Cornwall, it’s well worth a visit. One of our favourite ways to explore is with a kayaking tour where you’ll discover hidden creeks and local wildlife.
Watch for everyday moments
In between exploring, don’t forget to watch for the town’s beautiful everyday moments: whether it’s yachts sailing in and out of the harbour, fishermen hauling their catch on the quay or gig rowing boats (once used to escort arriving ships into port) training in the river. These small moments are the beating heart of the town and part of what makes it so special. And with lots of lovely cafés and restaurants with sea views, there are plenty of places to sit and watch the world drift by.
Maritime events in Falmouth
With such a vibrant history, Falmouth’s maritime culture is celebrated each year through a series of exciting festivals and events.
Falmouth Classics
12th - 14th June 2026
Marvel at some of the world’s finest vessels in a three-day classic boat regatta and one of the largest classic boat events in the UK. Falmouth has plenty of fantastic vantage points to watch boats racing in the Carrick Roads and Falmouth Bay.
Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival
12th - 14th June 2026
One of the town’s biggest festivals, Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival brings revelry and a festival feel to the town with its maritime shanties and beer tents. Expect up to 80 performers across twenty venues – all of which are free to enter!
Falmouth Dragon Boat Race
25th - 26th July 2026
Great for the whole family, the Falmouth Dragon Boat Race features the ultimate battle of the seas, where crews of up to 17 compete for the top spot.
Falmouth Week
7th - 16th August 2026
One of the UK’s most popular sailing regattas, Falmouth Week brings a week of racing to local waters. Shoreside, expect live music, themed nights, and plenty of family-friendly daytime activities. Plus, an aerial display from the Red Arrows!
Falmouth Oyster Festival
8th - 11th October 2026
Falmouth is known for its oysters – so much so that there’s a whole festival dedicated to oyster dredging season. Featuring live music, celebrity chef cooking demos, and, of course, lots of delicious food to eat, Falmouth Oyster Festival is a highlight of the town’s foodie calendar.
Falmouth’s maritime-inspired pubs and eateries
Whether you’re looking for dog-friendly pubs or the best seafood in town, Falmouth’s waterside haunts are some of the best gathering places around.
Chain Locker
One of Falmouth’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1660, the Chain Locker is also one of Falmouth’s best drinking establishments. Maritime memorabilia bedecks the walls and boats bob in the harbour just outside, creating a cosy place to enjoy their pub classic menu or a refreshing pint.
Kelp Canteen
For a casual bite, head to Kelp Canteen for a daily changing menu of fresh shellfish, fish, and seaweed right on the quay. For full enjoyment, grab a pint next door from The Front (another great Falmouth pub) and enjoy your food from one of their outdoor benches with views over the harbour.
The Fish Cabin
For a proper sit-down meal in an intimate seafood restaurant, The Fish Cabin is a must-visit in the heart of town. Expect a daily-changing menu based on locally caught fish, plus an excellent rotating wine menu.
Looking for somewhere to stay while you explore the town? Choose from beautiful harbourside cottages, beachfront houses or town-centre boltholes as part of our collection of self-catered accommodation in Falmouth.
Tags: Falmouth | History | South Cornwall | Boat Trips |