An abundance of historical and ecological landmarks punctuate Cornwall’s 300-mile stretch of shoreline. To make the most of them, we pick 10 top places in and around Falmouth to rest your head this summer season – from on-trend glamping spots and on-the-water options to the more traditional realms of self-catered cottages and hotels – if nothing else, Falmouth has guest houses covered.
The Royal Duchy Hotel, Cliff Rd
If you’re looking for views and the experience of a classic hotel, this is the place – think manicured lawns and panoramic vistas of the bay, especially from the Terrace lounge which looks towards the Pendennis Castle peninsula. The Royal Duchy staff has an excellent reputation and attention to detail is their specialty. Adhering to its classical theme, the décor is tastefully neutral with flourishes of gold, although the Pendennis dining room is particularly inspired with accents of burgundy and gold – with a smart casual dress code to match. Book a romantic weekend from £310pppn in a deluxe sea front double.
Trecombe Lakes, Nr Constantine
Go glamping, or ‘Pod Living’ as the website coins it, for a family friendly week at Trecombe Lakes. Each Pod is fitted with the necessities: a small kitchen and bathroom join one double and two single bedrooms, each with their own decked BBQ and fire pit area. Located just five miles outside of Falmouth near the popular Helford River, the campsite is a haven for lovers of the Great Outdoors. Surrounded by nine acres of ancient woodland it’s great for keen walkers and with no less than seven lakes for kayaking, it delivers the complete aura of a camping trip with all the comforts of civilisation. Nearby attractions include the National Trust’s Glendurgan garden and sub-tropical valley Trebah . Prices from £425.
Cornish Cruising, Falmouth Yacht Marina
Seasoned sailors and rookies alike should look no further than the Falmouth marina to charter a yacht from Cornish Cruising. For a week, they offer tuition or private hire for couples and family groups whatever your budget, sailing around some of the ‘most protected sailing and cruising grounds in Europe’ with safe places to swim along the meandering creeks of the Fal Estuary. There’s also the chance to join group excursions as sailing cruises are available from Falmouth to Brittany or the Isles of Scilly, and back again. Prices from £645. (Weekend and day charter also available).
Hotel Tresanton, St. Mawes
A cluster of five separate houses make up Hotel Tresanton on the edge of idyllic fishing village St. Mawes. Of these, both Rock Cottage and The Nook can be rented as a whole for extended groups. Amongst the 30 rooms available, 10 are dog-friendly, so this spot is perfect for a weekend getaway with your loved one (humans included). The rooms are beautifully finished with antiques, Cornish artwork and dreamy views of the bay which has earned this hotel its boutique reputation. After all, it even has its own yacht. Pinuccia is available for hire from Easter to September complete with her own Skipper to cruise you round Falmouth Bay and the estuaries of the Helford and Fal rivers. Book Seaview doubles this summer from £270.
The Greenbank Hotel, Harbourside
With overwhelmingly unanimous reviews singing its praises, The Greenbank is largely considered one of the best hotels in Cornwall. A theme of heritage runs through every part of the hotel starting with the locally sourced produce for their menus, providing White Company toiletries in the bathrooms and having unrivalled views of the marina at the end of your bed. To further celebrate their central surroundings, the Master suite has a luxurious balcony and window bath (with modesty panels) for an al fresco bathing experience. Naturally, there are even private pontoons to step straight from the hotel jetty to an awaiting yacht – did someone say Cannes? Don’t miss trying the Honey Bear cocktail in the newly refurbished bar, especially on Fridays as it’s 2 for £10 from 5pm. Prices from £119.
Pollaughan Holiday Cottages, Porthscatho
Nestled amidst the tranquil surroundings of England’s green and pleasant land – all 22 acres of them – Pollaughan Farm is located on the Roseland Peninsula and offers four cottages to rent. With its close proximity to Porthcurnick Beach and leafy countryside setting, Pollaughan Farmstead is a true microcosm of Falmouth’s varied scenery. This rural escape offers bookings for both self-catered breaks and a bed and breakfast room ‘with a difference’. Whether you’re after a peaceful break out of the city or want to explore the nearby attractions including the world-famous Eden Project, you can do so comfortably from Porthscatho. The family friendly location has highlights that include helping feed the on-site animals every morning to biking to the nearby Bissoe Cycle Trail which offers routes across Cornwall. B&B from £240.
The Rosemary, 22 Gyllyngvase Terrace
Only a two minute stroll from Gyllyngvase beach, The Rosemary is a locally renowned gem near the seafront, coupling its warm service with quality rooms, it has an enviable location perfect for visits on foot to Falmouth’s National Maritime Museum and other central attractions. With prices from £77 for a double, it’s great value for money too.
Bosvathick House, Constantine
A family pile since 1760, Bosvathick House is a grade II listed property festooned with portraits, pianos, Indian rugs, and antique furniture making it a perfect retreat for historians and gardeners (given the leafy grounds) who will love this step back in time. The house and its garden can be booked for private tours, but the B&B service is a real highlight. Whether you wish to enjoy walks around the countryside and nearby Helford River, or peruse the books in the grand library, there’s much to do in this peaceful spot. Personal touches by hostess Kate such as the homemade bread, cakes and marmalade make this a special experience. Prices from £45 per night.
Nansidwell Barn, Mawnan
For a very exclusive getaway, don’t miss the chance to experience the calming milieu of Nansidwell Barn in Mawnan, a village situated ten minutes from Falmouth town. Set on National Trust land, this beautiful 400-year old barn and former artist’s studio offers couples a luxury experience – both inside and out. The on-site and coastal walks are incomparable, with wild and unspoilt views across Falmouth Bay. Don’t miss a pint at local favourite The Shipwright’s Arms –a beautiful 17th century thatched pub in a glorious waterside position. Pets allowed. From £460 per week.
National Trust Powders Cottage, Helford
Nestled at the point where Frenchman’s Creek and the Helford River meet, you’ll find the cabin of the Three Bears. Or you may as well, for the Powders Cottage of the National Trust radiates such an ambience of mystery and nostalgia, it could well be straight out of a fairy tale. Named after Powders Thurburn – the artist and sailor that lived there before until the 1940s – the interior has been restored to a modern décor with eco-friendly materials. On the exterior you can expect the kind of animated silence that only nature can bring given the adjoining lake and towering pine trees. It truly is the perfect location for both fishermen and bird watchers alike. Sleeps four, dogs welcome. Prices from £585 per week.
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Words: Hannah Cook