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Falmouth, Penryn, and St Mawes form an enchanting part of southern Cornwall. Falmouth, an active port, continues to engage in shipbuilding and repairs, albeit on a reduced scale compared to its historic past. As a significant port of call positioned in the Western Approaches to Britain, Falmouth carries a rich maritime tradition.
Renowned as the gateway to the world's third largest natural harbour, the Carrick Roads, Falmouth offers vast expanses of water and coastline to explore, backed by stunning coastal scenery. The town was home to the packet boats established by the Royal Mail in 1688, which dispatched mail to America. Today, it remains a bustling port frequented by merchant vessels, recreational yachts, and fishing boats.
The Falmouth area boasts four sandy beaches - Gyllyngvase, Castle, Swanpool, and Maenporth. They provide perfect spots for sunbathing, swimming, sailing, and building sandcastles. The National Maritime Museum, based in Falmouth, exhibits a remarkable collection of ships and boats and is a must-visit. Another historic landmark is Pendennis Castle, built as part of the nation's coastal defences by Henry VIII in 1539.
Located inland from Falmouth, Penryn forms part of the same urban area and offers a good range of local and branded shops.
St Mawes, a charming fishing village, lies opposite Falmouth on the other side of the Carrick Roads. The village can be reached by following the A3078, which branches off the main Truro to St Austell road, the A 390. The Roseland Peninsular surrounds this area, and the road winds through lush countryside to end at St Mawes. The wide bay in front of the village is a haven for sailing, particularly in the summer months. A passenger ferry provides a connection with Falmouth. A small castle at the village end overlooks the sea and once formed part of the defences of the main anchorage at Falmouth. It is now maintained by English Heritage and is open to the public.
Other places to visit nearby include St. Just-in-Roseland, St Mawes Castle, the Helford estuary, and the Lizard Peninsular.