Falmouth Holidays: Things To See and Do When You Stay in Falmouth in Cornwall

The port and town of Falmouth is located on the River Fal and is on England’s south coast in the County of Cornwall.  Falmouth has the third deepest natural harbor in the world and has been the starting and finishing point for many round the world sailing voyages. Such people who have carried out such record breaking attempts are Sir Francis Chichester and Dame Ellen MacArthur. But it isn't just the town that is interesting there are plenty of fascinating attractions when you visit Falmouth.

The National Seal Sanctuary was opened in 1958 after a baby seal that was only a few hours old washed up on the beach in St Agnes. The sanctuary stayed at St Agnes until 1975, when it outgrew the facilities there. The sanctuary then moved to Gweek and Ken (its owner) added more pools so that he could cater for more rescued seals from around Cornwall. 

The seals are cared for with a view to returning them to the wild as soon as possible.  But those seals who have suffered too many injuries are kept at the sanctuary if they wouldn't be capable of surviving again in the wild.

Just south east of Falmouth is Pendennis Castle which is situated across the harbor from its castle St Mawes. Both castles were built in the time of the Tudors and were an important part of the UK's sea defenses during the time of Henry VIII. Their main aim was to deter invaders from Spain and France. 

Since its construction it has been used over the centuries and remains in excellent condition to this day. Elizabeth I had the castle strengthened and it had the honor of being the last Royalist stronghold to fall in the English Civil War. Plus the castle then was utilized during both the First and Second World Wars and you can still see the guard house and underground tunnels from these troubled times. Plus you have a chance to visit the Tudor Keep which has been well maintained and in which a gun deck has been recreated.

Close to Falmouth is the Lizard Peninsula, the most southern point in England and even though Land's End is often thought to hold this position. When you visit Lizard Point there is plenty for one to do and see from the Goonhilly Earth Station with the satellite dishes that stand out. Plus as you walk along the National Trust owned costal path look towards the see you may spot some seals or dolphins and even possibly a basking shark.

In Falmouth itself there are plenty of attractions that visitors to this coastal town can enjoy. One of these is Trebah Gardens, which can be found on the outskirts of Falmouth, close to Mawnan Smith village. The gardens are spread over twenty five acres and feature a wide selection of plant life. But along with the plants there is a large pond, a waterfall and private beach area as well. 

You can spend quite some considerable time exploring all that these gardens have to offer and there is a cafe where light refreshments are provided. Plus if you find the children are getting a little bored just exploring the gardens then take them to the playground to let off some steam. The gardens are open through the year although the times of opening and closing do differ.  

Check out the wide variety of Falmouth hotels and guest houses here.