During our week in Cornwall, and having a car to hand- we were set on exploring a little further afield, and ticking off some new corners of the beautiful south west.
One place that came up time and time again was Falmouth, somewhere I’d heard lots of wonderful things about from friends, but somewhere that I’d never managed to tick off my ‘to visit’ list.
With the drive from our cottage hovering just under 45 minutes and a hugely generous amount of recommendations to hand, we buckled up and headed across the coast- certain that a day in the town would be far from enough time to see even a handful of the suggestions on our list- but goodness, we’d give it a good go. I don’t think I’ve ever had as many delicious food recommendations come through for one place so quickly, so ensuring we had empty bellies and a bit of a plan- it was all systems go for an afternoon of some serious exploring (a.k.a sitting in tea rooms and walking off scones on beautiful coastal paths)…
Although we didn’t quite manage to tick everything off (I think we’ll allow a week next time), I’ve popped below the things we did manage to do- as well as the things I hope to do next time, in case anyone is planning a slightly longer visit. Falmouth is such a beautiful spot- and not only boasts so many beauty spots from the harbor to its beaches, but oozes endless food and independent shopping options (so much so, one kind reader said that on special occasions it’s very normal to aim to go out for breakfast, lunch and dinner- the offerings are that good)!
Eating…
Although we only had a day in the town, finding a gorgeous lunch spot was high on our list. After much deliberation we opted for the much-loved Dolly’s– a tearoom and wine bar on the popular Church Street; with a menu fuelled by traditional sandwich options and the most delicious cheese toasties, scones and soups too (my brothers croque monsieur was so good he nearly ordered a second to go). Plus, Pearl the springer was also on duty- so it’s safe to say we received a very warm welcome too…
And for next time…
Gylly beach café – Good Vibes – Indidog – Pandora Inn
Blue Jeans And Moonbeams – Star & Garter – Mangia – Bros – Espressini
Provedore – Beerwolf – Courtyard Deli – Cribs –
The Seafood Bar – Harbour Lights Fish & Chips – Five Degrees West
Seeing…
One of the most beautiful things about the town, is that beyond the high street there is so much natural beauty to soak up and explore- most of which is possible even without a car too. From the harbour, stretches of sandy beaches, National Maritime Museum and array of lush gardens nearby- it’s a true haven for both the indoorsy and outdoorsy too.
After our lunch, we took the short walk to Gyllyngvase beach, and then carried along the coastline and scenic coastal path to the stunning Swanpool beach– a smaller cove, but one that seemed to be a total favourite spot for locals swimming, after school rock pooling and quiet moments by the shore. It’s also home to highly recommended Hooked on the Rocks too, which overlooked the bay and would make for the most gorgeous dinner spot.
And for next time…
Potager Garden- Trebah Garden – Maenporth Beach
Pendennis Castle – Mylor Bridge – Muddy Beach
Flushing Beach – Star Glazers Pottery – Beside The Wave Gallery
Shopping…
I’m almost certain it’s impossible for me to visit anywhere and not veer into any of the local shops. Whether it’s new vintage discoveries or just fawning over plants that definitely won’t travel all the way home- Falmouth has the most gorgeous selection of small businesses, so naturally it felt rude to walk right by and not have a nosey inside…
Where we visited:
Ondine Ash: Cosied up in Old Brewery Yard is the beautiful Ondine Ash- a haven of contemporary home and lifestyle pieces as well as dreamy plants too.
Oaken: Conveniently next door to Ondine Ash, this beautiful womenswear shop is home to some incredibly beautiful sustainably (and handmade) clothing and jewellery.
Parade: A gorgeous selection of handpicked British and Danish womenswear brands (peppered with some lovely gifts too).
The Bean Hive: For colour, stationery, lifestyle, vintage and the most brilliant independent brands and designers look no further. ALL. THE. PINK.
Willow & Stone: Stationery and lifestyle heaven. You could quite easily go just to fawn at the interiors, but with the most heavenly selection of everything from books, to cards, baby bits and traditionally home wear and fittings- you’ll be pushed to not walk away with a few treats.
Jam Records: One of the coolest record shops I’ve been to- downstairs feels like your cool friends mid-century living room, and you could spend hours flicking through the shelves of records.
Botanical Atelier: Dreamy botanical inspired prints, art materials and handpicked functional products, all inspired by nature and the beautiful outdoors.
Vintage Warehouse 13: I mean, how could I not? One of my favourite vintage shops in the town, but there’s lots of quirky little second hand shops to keep an eye out for too!
And for the way home…
Although our trip was short and sweet, rumour had it that it wouldn’t be complete without a quick trip to Stone’s Bakery for their iconic custard and jam donuts and a coffee pit stop at Beacon Coffee down the road. We definitely left with a slightly greater selection than just donuts- but with a queue outside and the window looking oh so inviting, it would be rude not to, right?
And for next time…
Choakes Pasties – Baker Tom’s Bread – Picnic (for beach lunch supplies)
I feel like this list truly only scratched the surface of this beautiful town, and I’m so excited to hopefully head back and see more of the gems it has to offer. Again, thank you all for all of your ridiculously kind recommendations- it certainly makes seeing a place feel all the more special when you have lots of great nods, so truly- thank you!
x
7 Comments
Michelle Chai
October 23, 2020 at 9:43 amLiv, this all looks so dreamy! The perfect end-of-season break. And all the pups – my heart!
Zoey
October 23, 2020 at 2:10 pmI love Falmouth, my husband and I visited there back in August. It was so lovely. x
Zoey | http://www.zoeyolivia.com
Lucy
October 25, 2020 at 12:06 pmOh I absolutely love Falmouth, such a gorgeous little place. Seeing these photos makes me want to go back asap!
Lucy | Forever September
Rose
October 26, 2020 at 11:43 amLove it!
Elise May Ann
October 26, 2020 at 11:58 amI can’t wait to travel again!
Neeltje
October 30, 2020 at 8:32 amAh, now I want to go there!
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Nippon
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