Falmouth, dates back to Saxon times and was a tiny village up until the 17th century. It’s deep natural harbour and strategic location were first recognised by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1688 and soon after, it was transformed into the country’s largest trading port with 39 overseas mail-vessels by 1827. Henry VIII noted Falmouth’s importance in maintaining the security of Great Britain and built Pendennis and St Mawes Castles on either side of the Fal estuary, should the French decide to land an army here. A First World War guardroom and tunnels leading to the Second World War Gun Battery can also be discovered at Pendennis when once again the British defended their turf. Visitors to St Mawes Castle will enjoy views across the Fal estuary and its tropical gardens with plants from all over the world.

Today Falmouth’s docks remain and handle many tankers every year, yet it is more commonly known as a holiday resort with wonderful climate, beautiful beaches and excellent watersport facilities. Tourists began to flock here after railroad links were built in 1863.

Architecture in the town ranges from Georgian and Victorian buildings to the 16th century town church. Other notable attractions include the Ships and Castles Leisure Pool, Kimberley Park and Fox Rosehill Gardens and the Falmouth Arts Centre, reknowned for its collection of Tuke paintings and the Cornwall Maritime Museum.