Explore Falmouth this winter

Falmouth is a wonderful holiday destination and is known for it’s tropical gardens, beautiful beaches and all manner of water related activities. But what happens when the visitors leave, and the seasons change? If the thought of summer crowds fill you with dread, come and explore Falmouth this winter.

In Falmouth, there is always something happening; from notable events such as Falmouth Week, to local community driven beach cleans. Falmouth also has the advantage of hosting a thriving arts university, which means that even out of the tourist season, the town remains energised.

Events

Falmouth’s Festive Weekend launches this year, delivering Christmas merriment for all the family. It takes place on the 14th & 15th of December across the whole town, from noon – 6pm each day. Take a walk down the historic High Street for a festive gathering, complete with roast chestnuts, fire pits and street performers. Go for a ride on the Victorian carousel or jump on board the Snow Train! There’s much more to get involved in, including some events in the run up to the weekend. The Christmas Lights Switch On is on the 28th of November and the Live Nativity takes place on the 8th of December.

If you’re looking to shop locally and sustainably this Christmas, Falmouth has a wide range of independent shops on offer, as well as some bigger names. Cornwall boasts a wealth of talented makers and artists. Beautifully curated boutiques make finding something special a little more straightforward.

Seasonal Changes

As the busy season ends, there are some welcome changes which take place. Life resumes a more leisurely pace as the leaves turn. Bundle up warm and take an invigorating walk with your favourite four legged friend as the seasonal dog bans are lifted from our Cornish beaches.

Falmouth acts as a great base from which to explore Cornwall. It’s an even more relaxed experience when the roads quieten down – getting down those narrow Cornish lanes becomes a little easier! Selected council car parks are also free to park in, such as Gyllyngvase, while others, like The Dell, offer reduced rates.

Sea Bound

For some people, the sea isn’t off limits just because it’s cold! Wether you want to be in the sea, or admire it from afar, Falmouth is the place to be.

There is nothing quite like watching an immense storm roll in, but if the conditions are calmer, a ferry ride over to the scenic St Mawes is a must. If learning a new skill on the water sounds good, WeSUP offers paddle-board hire and lessons off Gyllyngvase beach. And, if a wake-up call is what you need, there’s always good old fashioned swimming!

If you’d prefer to stay on solid ground, you can overlook the beach under cover, with the comfort of a hot drink in hand and marvel at the bravery (or perhaps madness!) of year round sea swimmers.

Winter Walks

Bare trees reveal views which are hidden in the leafy summer. Find a new outlook when you take to the surrounding scenery. Perhaps you’d like to tackle a section of the South West Coast Path, or take a woodland exploration through Kennall Vale. Try out Penrose and the Helford Passage which offer a combination of the woods and the sea.

There’s something wonderful about getting out in the brisk winter weather (as long as you’re dressed accordingly!) and it makes that hot meal or cup of tea in front of the fire at the end even more deserved.

Accommodation

Our accommodation guide is a comprehensive source of information about providers and their availability. Certain businesses do close in the winter, or operate a reduced service. Using our Falmouth area wide search will give the most up to date information on what’s open. Many smaller businesses, like B&Bs, may also provide favourable rates when you book direct rather than through booking sites, especially in the winter. It is always worth phoning or visiting their website to get the best prices.

Wether you’re after a lavish hotel stay, a self-catering property complete with a roaring fire, or a welcoming bed and breakfast, Falmouth has it all.

See you in Falmouth!

Falmouth may be a postcard perfect summer holiday destination, but there is much more to our bustling little town than sunbathing! Take time out this winter to breathe in some fresh (though perhaps bracing!) sea air. Explore the delights of Cornwall in the winter.

words / Catie Close
photos / © Catie Close, unless otherwise stated