A Self-Guided Tour Through Falmouth's Seafaring Past

Falmouth , United Kingdom

A Self-Guided Tour Through Falmouth's Seafaring Past

Active

(1 reviews)

50m - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Are you looking for a way to see Falmouth without joining a tour group? Explore Falmouth at your own pace with this self-guided walking tour.

Nestled along the strategic perch of the English Channel, Falmouth’s story is intertwined with the ebb and flow of the sea.

On this walking tour, you’ll learn how the establishment of this harbour in the early 1600s helped shape its destiny. You’ll also hear how this natural deep-water port quickly became a hub for shipping and Falmouth a crucial naval station.

By the end of this tour, you’ll have unravelled the captivating maritime tales that are anchored in Falmouth’s history. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture buff, or simply a curious traveller, there’s something nautical and magical for everyone in Falmouth.

Please note: Entrance fees for any optional stops en route are not included. However, no additional paid tickets are required for you to complete this tour.

Available options

A Self-Guided Tour Through Falmouth's Seafaring Past

What's included

Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it

Get unlimited, lifetime use of the the virtual tour option

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

As you begin your walking tour, you'll pass by Jacobs Ladder, a captivating stairway comprising 111 steps, offering a unique connection between terrace properties and the bustling town below.

Explore the streets of Falmouth, passing by the Falmouth Library, a cultural hub offering the community a wealth of knowledge, art, and literature.

Catch a glimpse of the Falmouth Art Gallery, housed within the historic confines of the Old Library building, showcasing a diverse collection of artworks and cultural artifacts.

Pass by the Old Ambulance Station, a reminder of Falmouth's history and its commitment to public safety and welfare.

Pass the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, a prestigious institution embodying Falmouth's maritime heritage and seafaring traditions.

Walk along the Prince of Wales Pier Landing, a historic site that has welcomed ships and ferries for centuries, connecting Falmouth to nearby Flushing.

As you stroll through Falmouth's streets, you'll pass by The Cornish Bank, a symbol of the town's commercial and financial activities.

Admire the Church of King Charles the Martyr Falmouth, a historic landmark that reflects the town's religious heritage and architectural splendour.

Pass by Falmouth Custom House Quay, where the art of oyster dredging and maritime commerce come together, showcasing Falmouth's maritime legacy.

Pass by Arwenack Manor, a grand residence nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Falmouth, a testament to the town's illustrious past.

Pay homage to Sir John Killigrew at the Killigew Monument, a towering tribute to the visionary landowner who played a pivotal role in shaping Falmouth's destiny.

Pass by Falmouth Event Square, a vibrant gathering place that hosts various cultural events and celebrations, adding to the town's lively atmosphere.

End your walking tour at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, where the captivating maritime tales of Falmouth's history come to life, offering a deeper understanding of the town's seafaring identity.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour begins on Falmouth Moor. This is the main hub for buses arriving into the town. There is a short-stay car park on the moor, but the best car park is in the Quarry Car Park, which is on the left of The Moor as you are driving into the town.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
─── 
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
───
1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
───
You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
─── 
For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Falmouth

Falmouth is a vibrant coastal town known for its rich maritime history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant arts scene. With its deep natural harbor, it's a haven for sailors and offers a blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and charming local charm.

Top Attractions

National Maritime Museum Cornwall

A fascinating museum dedicated to Cornwall's maritime heritage, featuring interactive exhibits and historic ships.

Museum 2-3 hours £12.50

Pendennis Castle

A historic fort built by Henry VIII, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Falmouth's military past.

Historical 2-3 hours £12.50

Gyllyngvase Beach

A beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day Free

Trebah Garden

A subtropical paradise with a stunning coastal location, featuring a variety of plants and breathtaking views.

Nature Half day £10.50

Falmouth Art Gallery

A charming gallery showcasing a diverse collection of art, including works by local and international artists.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cornish Pasty

A traditional baked pastry filled with beef, potatoes, onions, and swede.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free.

Fish and Chips

Freshly caught fish, typically cod or haddock, battered and deep-fried, served with thick-cut chips.

Dinner Gluten-free options available.

Stargazy Pie

A traditional Cornish pie made with pilchards, where the fish heads poke through the crust.

Dinner Not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.

Cornish Cream Tea

Scones served with clotted cream, jam, and a pot of tea.

Afternoon Snack Vegetarian-friendly.

Popular Activities

Sailing Kayaking Coasteering Beachcombing Sunbathing Spas Museums Galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and sunniest time of the year, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The town is bustling with festivals and events.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Falmouth is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis and tour operators.

Getting there

By air

Newquay Cornwall Airport • 30 miles (48 km)

By train

Falmouth Town Station, Falmouth Docks Station

By bus

Falmouth Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, covering most of the town and connecting to nearby areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Penwerris Gyllyngvase

Day trips

St. Mawes

15 miles (24 km) • Half day to full day

A picturesque coastal village with a rich history, stunning views, and a variety of attractions.

Truro

11 miles (18 km) • Half day

The capital of Cornwall, offering a mix of historic sites, shopping, and dining.

The Lizard Peninsula

25 miles (40 km) • Full day

A stunning coastal area with a variety of attractions, including beaches, cliffs, and historic sites.

Festivals

Falmouth Week • August Falmouth Oyster Festival • Late September to early October Falmouth Sea Shanty Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall to learn about the town's rich maritime heritage.
Explore the charming streets and alleys of the town center, with its mix of independent shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Take a boat tour or sailing trip to experience the town's stunning coastal scenery and maritime heritage.
Sample the local seafood, particularly oysters and mussels, which are often served in local restaurants and pubs.
Attend a local festival or event, such as Falmouth Week or the Falmouth Oyster Festival, to experience the town's vibrant culture and community spirit.