Things to do in Falmouth
With its coastal setting and one of the world’s largest natural harbours, Falmouth is understandably all about the water. But there’s even more to Falmouth than its beautiful beaches and craggy coves.
It's steeped in history and stunning countryside, too. Wondering what to do in Falmouth on your visit from our Perran Sands Holiday Park? Here are some things to do in Falmouth.
Trebah Gardens
Like so many Cornish towns and villages, Falmouth is stunning, and Trebah Garden lets you experience some of the valley’s most beautiful scenery. It’s easy to get to by following the signposts on the main roads in Falmouth and kids get in free.
There’s over 26 acres of gardens set over steep terrain, separated into distinct areas with its own secluded beach. Among the exotic plants, find the peaceful bamboo forest, koi pond, and water gardens. Although the visitor centre and cafe are on even, wheelchair-friendly ground, the gardens are too steep for manual wheelchairs.
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
This museum has a whopping 15 galleries spread out over five floors, all dedicated to maritime history and local culture. You’ll find it in Discovery Quay, right where working boat sheds used to stand. A ticket lets you come back for an entire year, in case you can’t get enough on your first visit and want to come back again.
For starters, the main hall has a fleet of ships actually hanging from the rafters! As you make your way around, learn stories of rescue and survival at sea from the exhibits, including a celebration of the wonderful work of the RNLI. For a bite to eat, The Waterside cafe overlooks the harbour and serves up light lunches, snacks, and drinks. Fancy bringing your own? Set up a picnic in the dedicated outdoor picnic area. Before you set sail onto another adventure, stop by the gift shop to purchase local gifts as a reminder of your time here.
The Flicka Foundation Donkey Sanctuary
Come and meet Falmouth’s gentle donkeys and horses at the Flicka Foundation sanctuary, home to over 100 rescued animals. Visit for free and bring your furry friends along on leads, too. In the warmer months, the donkeys and horses get to explore the grounds outside. You’ll find them soaking up the sun in the paddocks, accessible by the visitor walkways. If you’re visiting during the winter, they’re tucked up warm and cosy in the indoor areas. Friendly volunteers are on hand, ready to answer any questions you have!
Overlooking the paddocks, the on-site vegan cafe provides lots of scrummy homemade snacks and cakes, with all proceeds going to the charity. Before you leave, pop into the Gift Cabin to pick up donkey-themed gifts and leave a donation, if you can.
Falmouth Art Gallery
Find this free gallery in the heart of Falmouth. This fully wheelchair-accessible location is home to over 2,700 works of art, some of which are permanent fixtures while others rotate regularly.
There’s a mix of local art and major museum loans to really give you an eclectic blend of all kinds of art styles, from pre-Raphaelite and impressionist paints, right up to contemporary prints and photography. Art lovers rejoice!
Glendurgan Garden
This exotic wooded valley is a National Trust site, so if you’re a member, you can get in for free. The gardens feature all kinds of wonders including a cherry laurel maze, wildflower meadows, and an apple orchard located near the beehives. The valley leads down to a beach - a secluded, shingly spot perfect for taking a peaceful moment to look out on the water. There’s a recreation of an old 19th-century schoolroom that for 15 years, taught the local children.
Breathing in all that clean, Cornish countryside air works up an appetite, so pop by the tearoom for a cream tea or an ice cream when you need refreshments.
Gwithti an Pystri - A Cabinet of Folklore and Magic
For one of the more unusual things to do in Falmouth, a visit to this private museum is a must. You’ll find it on the high street—’familiars’ are welcome to join you! Step through the door and be immersed in quirky displays and artefacts dedicated to the local folklore and witchcraft history that Cornwall is so famous for.
There’s a vast array of strange books and trinkets, all arranged in a delightfully higgeldy-piggeldy way. Some say there’s a resident ghost, too…
Falmouth Mystery Treasure Trail
Take adventure into your own hands with a self-guided treasure trail around Falmouth! Download the app or print off a trail map and work together to solve clues along the way. Start at Discovery Quay, then make your way around the town to landmarks and local spots.
It takes around an hour and a half to complete the trail, but take time out to treat yourself to delicious Cornish treats and snacks to fuel your detective skills!
Pendennis Castle
Castle Drive, Falmouth TR11 4LP
For a historic day out in Falmouth, Pendennis Castle offers a glimpse into Cornwall’s past, from its Tudor origins to its wartime role. Built by Henry VIII, this seaside fortress boasts winding staircases, atmospheric war rooms, and impressive collections of historic weaponry.
Climb to the top of the keep for expansive sea views, explore the gun rooms, or let kids enjoy the soft play area. The castle grounds provide plenty of space for picnics, and the on-site cafe serves up traditional treats. Whether you're a history buff or simply want to soak in the coastal scenery, Pendennis Castle is a must-visit.
Jacob's Ladder
Chapel Terrace, Falmouth TR11 3BQ
For those up for a bit of a challenge, Jacob’s Ladder offers a steep granite staircase leading down to Falmouth’s main square, the Moor. With 111 steps, the climb might be tough, but the panoramic views of the harbour and estuary from the top make it worthwhile.
Built by a local businessman as a shortcut between his home and business, the staircase has since become a well-known landmark in the town. Whether you choose to ascend or descend, it’s a scenic way to explore Falmouth’s charming streets.
Royal Cornwall Museum
River St, Truro TR1 2SJ
Home to over a million artefacts, the Royal Cornwall Museum delves into the rich cultural history of the region. From Bronze Age relics to contemporary Cornish identity, its exhibitions explore how the region’s unique geology and heritage have shaped its people. Admission is free for under 18s — how’s that for a family outing?
The permanent galleries cover everything from minerals and nature to ancient civilizations and art. The museum is run by the Royal Institution of Cornwall, founded in 1818 to promote art and science. Entry includes an annual pass, making it a great option for return visits. If you need to take five, the independently run Arts Cafe next door offers refreshments in a relaxed setting.
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Important information
New holiday homes from £39,995 – UPDATED 28 February 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As of 28 February, price is available at Kiln Park and Perran Sands
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Let2offset - make no site fee payments for 7 years
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset for 7 years’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset for 7 years’ is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Victory Ashberry 3 Bed or equivalent grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion.
An example of how ‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset for 7 years’ operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Victory Ashberry 3 Bed holiday home at Seton Sands with a monthly site fee of £667.08 (includes purchasing discount of £17.08) and monthly letting income of £673.17. The monthly difference equates to £23.17, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2025 figures.
Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Victory Ashberry 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading as of 2024.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Owner’s 'Appy Meal Deal for £7.99
All day, every day* - collection only
Only available to Owners staying on park
Any pie, fishcake or large sausage, small chips, any side and a soft drink
Upgrade to regular cod or haddock^ for £3
Owners can use their discount on top of this offer
Only available in Cook’s venues and not from our Cook’s vans. Offer includes any pie: Minced Beef and Onion, Chicken and Mushroom, Steak or Cheese and Onion, fish cake or large sausage (choose from plain or battered) and a portion of small chips, any side and a soft drink. Sides include curry sauce, gravy, beans or mushy peas. Drinks include any soft drinks can or bottled water (excludes Coca Cola). ^Some of our Cook’s do not serve haddock - in this case, an upgrade to cod will be the only option of fish to purchase. Dishes cannot be changed or swapped for alternatives. Non-inclusive of upgrades or add-ons. Discount is applied if all dishes and drinks are purchased together, and this must be in the same transaction. Available daily, subject to venue opening hours. *Some of our Cook’s do not open for lunch trading. Offer is only available when ordering via QR code, app or website and for collection only. Offer is only available to Owners who are staying on park. Owners can use their owner discount on top of this offer. Offer may be withdrawn or changed at any time, without notice. Offer is valid March 2025 - November 2025. Prices include VAT. This offer can be used in conjunction with all other offers. Offer not available in any on-park franchises. Haven Holidays is a trading name of Bourne Leisure Limited. Registered office: 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL. Registered in England and Wales, no 0401166
Pre-owned holiday homes from £24,995 – UPDATED 17 January 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 17 January 2025, price is available at Kiln Park and Perran Sands.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.