Falmouth is a stunning coastal town located in Cornwall, UK. With its lush greenery and crystal-blue waters, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for a tranquil getaway. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a nice walk, Falmouth has something to offer everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best walks in Falmouth – from hikes to leisurely strolls – that will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful town. From Pendennis Point to Penjerrick Garden, let’s take a closer look at the best walks Falmouth has to offer.
Pendennis Point
Pendennis Point is a must-see for anyone looking to explore Falmouth, with its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere – you won’t regret it!
The walk is a gentle incline, leading to the top of the cliff with its spectacular views of the Falmouth bay.
The path is well-maintained, and there are plenty of benches along the way, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll.
At the top, you can take in the beauty of the landscape, such as the rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and distant islands.
Wildlife is plentiful, and birdwatchers can often spot falcons, gannets, and other species.
In the summer months, you can also enjoy the vibrant wildflowers that add pops of color to the landscape.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, yet rewarding walk, Pendennis Point is the perfect choice.
Swanpool Beach
Swanpool Beach is a stunningly picturesque destination, with its sand dunes and crystal clear waters providing a tranquil escape.
The beach is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, whether it’s along the shoreline or through the nearby nature reserve.
Visitors can take advantage of the beach’s facilities, such as a cafe, shop, and ample car parking.
The beach also offers a range of activities for those looking for something more adventurous, such as kayaking, windsurfing, and paddle boarding.
It’s a great spot for bird watching, too, with a variety of species such as terns, oystercatchers, and the occasional seal.
With its stunning scenery and an abundance of activities, Swanpool Beach is a great spot for anyone looking for a peaceful day out or a more active adventure.
Jubilee Pool
Jubilee Pool is a popular spot for a dip, with its heated seawater offering a refreshing escape from the Cornish coast. Situated in the heart of Penzance, the pool is the largest heated outdoor seawater pool in the country, and was designed in 1935 by Captain F.D. Smith, the engineer of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, taking in the stunning scenery of the pool and surrounding area. The pool features a beautifully designed terrace and a fountain, and is the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning views of the nearby St Michael’s Mount.
It’s also a great place to go for a swim, with the heated seawater providing an invigorating experience. Jubilee Pool is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with its convenient location and spectacular views making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a peaceful walk.
Trewavas Head
Trewavas Head is a stunning spot to take in the beauty of the Cornish coast, offering sweeping views and plenty of opportunities for exploring. Located on the Lizard Peninsula, Trewavas Head is a small headland jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean.
On a clear day, you can see far out to sea, with the rocky cliffs of the headland providing an ideal spot for birdwatching. The area is also home to a large colony of seals, and you can often spot them playing in the surf or basking on the rocks. The area also boasts a variety of plants, including wildflowers like thrift and scabious, and an abundance of seabirds.
A visit to Trewavas Head is perfect for those looking for a peaceful stroll along the coast. The area is full of trails and paths, leading to hidden coves and secret beaches. It’s also a great spot for a picnic, with plenty of benches and tables in the nearby car park. There’s even a cafe nearby, which serves up some delicious Cornish pasties.
So, if you’re looking for a tranquil escape, head to Trewavas Head and let the beauty of the Cornish coast take your breath away.
Nansidwell Beach
Nansidwell beach is a great spot for those who want to experience the beauty of the Cornish coast without the crowds. This secluded beach is around three miles east of Falmouth and can be accessed by car, or on foot from the South West Coast Path.
The beach is a great spot for a leisurely stroll with its flat rocks and fine white sand, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding cliffs and the sea beyond. There are plenty of rock pools to explore for little adventurers, and the area is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
It’s also a great spot for a picnic, with plenty of sheltered spots on the cliffs, and a sheltered bay for a swim when the weather is good. The beach is also perfect for those looking to explore the historic area, with an old fort and a stone circle nearby.
Castle Beach
After exploring Nansidwell Beach, the next stop on my Falmouth walking tour is the picturesque Castle Beach. Located on Gyllyngvase Beach, it’s one of the most stunning and accessible spots in town.
It’s a great spot to take a break from a longer walk and enjoy the views. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding. There’s also a cafe nearby, which offers delicious snacks, drinks, and ice cream.
On a clear day, the beach offers breathtaking views of the sea and coastline. The area is also surrounded by a variety of historical landmarks, including Pendennis Castle, which is worth a visit.
With plenty of room for all, Castle Beach is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon outing.
Nare Head
Heading to Nare Head, visitors can take in the spectacular views of the Cornish coastline and experience the rugged beauty of the cliffs. The landmark is situated at the southernmost point of the Roseland Peninsula. It is surrounded by stunning scenery and is the perfect spot for a picturesque walk.
Nare Head is a great spot to spot wildlife such as seabirds, seals, and dolphins. From atop the headland, visitors can take in panoramic views of the sea and the nearby St Anthony Head.
There are plenty of paths to explore, from the coastal path to the wooded trails, which offer a variety of terrain to traverse. The area is also a great spot for fishing, swimming, and rock-pooling.
With its stunning views, varied wildlife, and numerous walking trails, Nare Head is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the best walks in Falmouth.
St Just in Roseland Church
Take a break from your coastal walk and explore the beautiful St Just in Roseland Church.
Situated right on the Roseland Peninsula, it’s a wonderful place to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
This Grade I listed building is one of the most impressive churches in Cornwall, and offers a great opportunity to explore its fascinating history.
The church has stood here since the 12th century, and the surrounding gardens contain a variety of ancient monuments and gravestones.
Inside, you can admire the 19th-century stained glass windows, as well as the impressive 15th-century roof bosses.
There’s even a 12th-century font that’s carved from a single piece of stone.
There’s plenty to explore here, and you can easily spend an hour or two exploring the grounds and admiring the architecture.
St Just in Roseland Church is the perfect spot for a peaceful break during your coastal walk.
Maenporth Beach
Discover the secluded gem that is Maenporth Beach, a tranquil spot nestled away on the Roseland Peninsula offering stunning views of the Cornish coast.
The beach is a great spot for a leisurely stroll, with its sandy beach and inviting shoreline. There are plenty of rockpools to explore, with the crystal clear waters offering a glimpse of the marine life that inhabits the area.
The beach is surrounded by lush green grassy knolls, making it the perfect place to take a picnic and relax in the sun. The beach is also popular with surfers, who come for the challenging waves and stunning backdrop.
The area is also home to the Maenporth Nature Reserve, a haven for birds, insects, and other wildlife. Here you can take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil woodlands and meadows, spotting the wide variety of wildlife that call the area home.
The reserve also offers a range of activities, from guided walks to a variety of outdoor sports. With its stunning scenery and abundance of wildlife, Maenporth Beach is an ideal spot to explore and enjoy the beauty of the Roseland Peninsula.
Gyllyngvase Beach
Leaving Maenporth Beach, I make my way to the next destination: Gyllyngvase Beach.
This is one of the best beaches in Falmouth, and it’s easy to see why. The sand is soft and golden, and the views of the sea and the harbor are stunning. There’s plenty of room for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. In the summer, the beach is bustling with visitors, but it’s still possible to find a quiet spot for some peace and quiet.
For those who are looking for a longer walk, there is a path that leads from Gyllyngvase Beach to Castle Beach. The entire walk is about two miles, and it passes by Falmouth Castle and Pendennis Castle. The route is mostly flat and it’s a great way to experience the beauty of the Cornish coastline.
After the walk, I can come back to Gyllyngvase Beach and spend some time relaxing on the sand.
Carrick Roads
Heading away from the beach, you’ll have the chance to explore the Carrick Roads, a winding stretch of water between Falmouth and Truro.
This area of Cornwall is renowned for its spectacular views. The road stretches along the coast, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
Carrick Roads is a great spot for a leisurely walk. You can take your time and enjoy the scenery.
The roads are lined with quaint pubs, restaurants, and shops, so you’ll never be short of places to stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
As you make your way around the roads, you’ll also be able to enjoy some of the area’s best wildlife and nature. There are plenty of birds, butterflies, and other plants and animals to be seen.
The roads are also a great spot for some fishing. There are plenty of fish to be caught throughout the year.
The Carrick Roads are a great spot to explore and take in some of the best sights that Cornwall has to offer.
Falmouth to Mawnan Smith
Exploring from Falmouth to Mawnan Smith, you’ll find yourself taking in stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coast. You’ll also have the chance to discover some of Cornwall’s hidden gems, with the picturesque hamlet of Mawnan Smith offering a delightful backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery.
This 10 mile circular walk follows a route that takes in some of the best scenery along the way, starting from the bustling market town of Falmouth and leading along the banks of the River Fal. Along the way, you’ll also pass through some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including the 13th century St Mawnan Church, the remains of a Norman castle, and the ancient Trefusis Estate.
As you make your way along the path, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to take in the stunning views of the countryside and coast, as well as get a glimpse of the local wildlife. By the end of the walk, you’ll have an unforgettable experience, with plenty of memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Maen Valley
Continuing your journey, you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty of the Maen Valley, a tranquil haven of rolling hills and lush greenery.
The stunning views of the valley are best enjoyed by taking a leisurely stroll along the Maen Valley Walk. This 2.5-mile loop begins in the hamlet of Helford Bridge, and takes you through the lush rolling hills of the valley, past ancient sites such as the Iron Age hill fort and the King Doniert’s Stone, and along the Helford River.
Along the way, you can take in views of the valley from a variety of angles, as well as the local wildlife.
The walk is a great way to get away from it all, and take in some of Cornwall’s most stunning scenery.
Durgan
Next on your journey, take a trip to the picturesque hamlet of Durgan, where you can experience the beauty of the Helford River up close and personal.
Here, you can explore the area’s unique and varied coastline, featuring stunning cliffs, coves, and beaches.
The most popular activity here is a leisurely stroll along the river’s edge, taking in the majestic sights of the surrounding countryside.
You can choose to take a guided tour, or you can explore the area on your own. There are plenty of lovely paths and trails to explore, so you can find something to suit your needs.
The landscape here is breathtaking, with a mix of lush vegetation, open hills, and tranquil waters. Whether you choose to hike, bike, or just take a leisurely stroll, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the river and its wildlife.
Durgan is also home to a number of excellent pubs and restaurants, so you can always grab a bite to eat after your walk.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, or you just want to experience the beauty of nature, Durgan is the perfect destination.
Penjerrick Garden
After visiting Durgan, head to Penjerrick Garden for a truly unique experience. Located just a few minutes away, this lush garden is home to a variety of exotic plants and trees. With its lovely views of Falmouth Bay and the surrounding countryside, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
The pathways are lined with colorful flowers, and the surrounding gardens are full of rare and unusual varieties. It’s a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area.
In addition to the many flowers and trees, Penjerrick Garden has a number of interesting features. There’s a pond full of koi fish, a natural stream, and a fountain. There’s also a summerhouse, which is a great spot to take a break. The garden also has a shop, where you can buy souvenirs and garden supplies.
All in all, Penjerrick Garden is a great place to get a sense of Falmouth’s natural beauty.
Conclusion
I’ve had an amazing time exploring the best walks in Falmouth. From Pendennis Point to Penjerrick Garden, there are so many great places to explore, and each one offers something unique and spectacular.
I’m so glad I got to experience them all.
No matter what you’re looking for, Falmouth has something for everyone. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along Swanpool beach or a more challenging hike through the Maen Valley, there’s a walk for everyone.
So take a stroll and enjoy the stunning views Falmouth has to offer.