A Maritime Adventure in Falmouth

Things to Do in Falmouth

Ideas for Ocean Lovers and Maritime History Enthusiasts

Nestled on Cornwall’s dramatic coastline, Falmouth welcomes visitors with centuries of maritime heritage, seafaring culture and fun things to do. This historic port town offers a blend of nautical history, adventure, and treasure hunting on rainy days or when the sun is shining, for anyone drawn to the sea.

Planning a Perfect Coastal Day Out in Cornwall?

Arrive in Falmouth by car, train or bus. Take a coastal drive and park up in the Maritime Car Park, hop on the Great Scenic Railways Maritime Line from Truro to Falmouth, or use the Park & Float to arrive by the water.

Start the morning with a Deep Dive into Maritime History

Start your maritime journey at National Maritime Museum Cornwall open 10am – 5pm, we’re positioned on the waterfront and our modern architecture houses centuries of seafaring stories. Allow 1-3 hours to fully explore the 15 galleries in the Museum and be sure to climb to the lookout for panoramic views across Falmouth Harbour.

Bartlett Library & Maritime Research Centre 

For those with a deeper curiosity about maritime history, the Bartlett Library & Maritime Research Centre within the Museum offers a treasure trove of nautical knowledge open Tue – Saturday 10am – 5pm. This specialised collection houses rare maritime books, charts, and documents. Even a brief visit can reward you with some fascinating insights.

Lunch

Stop off at National Maritime Museum Cornwall’s Waterside Café for brilliant views of Falmouth’s busy harbour or head into town to experience the maritime charm and history of the 16^th-century Chain Locker Pub. Located on the historic quayside, the Chain Locker is one of Falmouth’s oldest buildings

Falmouth Walking Tour

After lunch, embark on a self-guided walking tour of Falmouth’s maritime monuments. The town is dotted with memorials and markers that commemorate its seafaring heritage. You can use online guides to navigate between the monuments, each telling a unique story of Falmouth’s maritime past. Or if you’d prefer a guide, local guide and storyteller Will Hazell of Falmouth Uncovered offers walking tours and experiences that uncover Falmouth’s colourful past.

Take to the Water

No maritime day in Falmouth is complete without experiencing the water firsthand. Fal River Ferries offer scenic journeys that showcase the area’s natural beauty and maritime activity. Choose from various routes – perhaps to St Mawes for its castle views, or along the Fal River to see working oyster farms and secluded creeks.

The ferry ride provides a sailor’s perspective of Falmouth’s busy harbour, where you’ll witness everything from fishing boats to luxury yachts.

Maritime Treasure Hunting

Falmouth’s charity shops, antique stores and specialist nautical shops are goldmines for maritime enthusiasts. Hunt for nautical antique and other seafaring memorabilia.

The town’s independent bookshops Falmouth Bookseller, Bookmark, Greenbank Books and Beerwolf Books deserve special attention – they often stock maritime classics, adventure stories, and local sailing guides. These literary treasures make perfect souvenirs and provide endless inspiration for future maritime adventures.

As the day winds down, find a harbour-side pub or restaurant to reflect on your maritime adventure and watch the boats return to harbour as the sun sets.

Planning Your Visit

Falmouth’s maritime heritage isn’t just visible in the Museum, it’s alive in the working harbour, the local culture, and the continued sailing activities that define this remarkable Cornish town. Your day of maritime exploration will hopefully leave you with a deeper appreciation for the sea’s role in shaping Falmouth’s past and its vibrant present.