How to spend the perfect day in Falmouth

Falmouth is a well known tourist destination in Cornwall. But it’s still one of my favourite towns in the county. I chock this up to the creative, buzzy vibe (partly thanks to the high student population here and in nearby Penryn). But also its numerous pubs and restaurants, most of which are very, very good. Because of its small size it’s easy to pack a LOT into a single day, but of course you could extend this to 2-3 days. Either way Falmouth is an excellent base for a Cornish holiday. Below I’ve outlined how to spend a perfect day in Falmouth. If you are looking for more Cornish holiday inspiration, make sure to check out my other posts here.

8am Dough and Dowr

Starting the day off right with breakfast on the beach. Head over to Gyllyngvase to see the lads at Dough and Dowr. Serving up pizzas in the afternoon to hungry crowds, the mornings are a more relaxed affair. Pick up a freshly made bagel and a coffee and watch the sun come up with your toes in the sand.

10am Pendennis Castle

Stroll along the coast to Pendennis Point. Here you’ll find Pendennis Castle, one of England’s best-preserved coastal fortresses. Alongside St Mawes Castle, it protected the port towns below for more than 400 years. Originally built as a gun fort in the mid-16th century, the castle was strengthened in the 1590s with bastioned defences in response to the threat of Spanish invasion. Its defences were updated at various points over the centuries, most notably during WW2. There’s plenty for history fans to explore, but it’s also just worth a visit for the views. During school holidays it often hosts re-enactments and various events so keep an eye on its website for info. Book tickets here.

12pm Chick Pea/Sabzi

At lunchtime you are spoilt for choice. My go-to options are the excellent Chic Pea, who serve up incredible falafel pittas, wraps and salads. They have a build-your-own style menu which means you can tweak the falafel flavours, sauces and add-ons. The staff are also friendly and it’s easy on the wallet. Alternatively, the Falmouth branch of Sabzi Deli is terrific. Their menu changes daily but whatever is on offer is always absolutely delicious. Hearty and healthy food which keeps you going all day – what can be better than that?

1pm Shopping/Above the Bookshop/Beerwolf Books

For shopaholics, bargain hunters and window shoppers, Falmouth is a treasure trove. Its main thoroughfare, stretching from Market Street to Arwenack Street is filled with independent shops and high street favourites. There are plenty of art galleries and boutique clothing shops, as well as antique stores. Make sure to explore the alleyways as well. Gems like ‘Dig and Delve’ and ‘The Treasury Antiques’ can be found slightly off the beaten path. Plus you’ll get a cheeky view of the sea each time you step down an alley!

And if you are a bookworm then you simply must visit Falmouth Booksellers. It’s got a great selection and the cutest cafe upstairs, called (rather appropriately) Above the Bookshop. The drinks and pastries all have a literature theme and it’s a lovely place for a catch up.

If a book and a beer is more your vibe then I also have you covered. The terrific Beerwolf Books is tucked away behind the main drag and is home to a pub and bookshop in one. Independent ales on tap, a wide selection of books, and plenty of nooks and crannies to settle into.

3pm National Maritime Museum

Falmouth is still a working harbour, and has a rich maritime history, stretching back centuries. You can learn all about it at the National Maritime Museum. Inside you will find a mix of local history, as well as galleries on the ocean and our relationship with the sea. There is an ever changing programme of temporary exhibitions as well, with themes like pirates, sea monsters and surfing. Don’t miss the view from the lookout tower, and the Tidal Zone in the basement. Here you can look below the water’s surface through large glass windows. Tickets offer unlimited entry for a year and can be booked here.

5:30pm Pizza Jockeys/Wilder Kitchen

Dinner time is my favourite time. For the best pizza in town head over to Pizza Jockeys. These guys set up shop in Newquay in 2020 and soon expanded to this Falmouth spot. The handmade dough is incredible and the flavour combinations are creative and seriously delicious. Plenty of vegan options and great cocktails too. I recommend prebooking as it’s a small place and is very popular. But worst comes to worst, you can get a pie to takeaway!

If pizza isn’t really your thing then another option is Wilder Kitchen. Bradley, the founder of Wilder, came back from a trip to Southern India with a passion for Thalis. If you don’t know, a thali is a traditional way of serving food on a large platter, featuring a variety of small dishes with a mix of flavours and textures. His business is focused on sustainability and all food is vegan. It’s really honest, flavourful food which is great for the planet. The menu changes weekly, so keep an eye here.

7pm The Moth and the Moon/The Front/Chintz Bar

Being a student town, Falmouth is a great place for nightlife. There’s really something for everyone here. If you love an old and cosy pub there are plenty of excellent choices. Our favourites are The Moth and Moon and The Front. The second in particular is very much a local’s bar and you will often catch live music here. For cocktails I recommend The Black Cat and The Chintz Bar. Both have a younger crowds and a unique atmosphere, and are very LGBTQIA+ friendly. The Chintz also has a packed live music schedule which you can find online here.

That is how to spend a perfect day in Falmouth. Let me know if you have visited already and how you spent your time here. Want to keep reading? Head over here for more Cornwall content. x