Things to do

Explore Cornwall

Attractions and activities near Falmouth

Cornwall offers stunning gardens, historic castles, mines, and top galleries like Tate St Ives and the Eden Project. Here are some of our favourite must-see spots and activities for all ages and interests.

Category

Two people clink tall glasses of amber beer in a bar, with one smiling face partially visible.

Fal Beer Fest

Friday 25th - Sunday 27th September 2026

A must-visit for beer lovers, Fal Beer Fest brings together a carefully curated selection of craft beers, real ales and ciders from leading breweries, complemented by live music, street food and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Tray of freshly shucked oysters with lemon wedges on an outdoor table, with a hand reaching toward them in soft sunlight.

Falmouth Oyster Festival

Thursday 8th - Sunday 11th October 2026

Held each autumn, the Falmouth Oyster Festival celebrates the start of the native oyster dredging season, showcasing Cornwall's rich maritime heritage alongside exceptional local seafood, cooking demonstrations and live entertainment.

Several open and closed books arranged on a dark wooden table, including a small open vintage book at the centre.

Falmouth Book Festival

Monday 19th - Sunday 25th October 2026

Discover a week of talks, interviews and events celebrating stories and authors from Cornwall and beyond.

Sauna | Budock Vean Hotel

Swimming pool, sauna & hot tub

Open from 8:00 until 22:00

Relax in Budock Vean’s indoor pool, hot tub and sauna with garden views.

Tennis

For guests and non-residents

Challenge your friends and family or perfect your game with our coaches.

Golf at Budock Vean Hotel

Golf

For guests and non-residents

Enjoy year-round golf on our James Braid-designed nine-hole/18-tee course set within tranquil parkland.

Boat trips

In partnership with Helford River Cruises

Take a 90-minute scenic river boat cruise from our private cove. Available April to October.

Kayak & paddleboarding

In partnership with Koru Kayaking

This two-hour adventure runs from April to October from our private cove.

Paddleboarding

In partnership with Koru Kayaking

Available from April to October, this two-hour adventure starts at the hotel’s private cove.

Sailing lessons

The Children’s Sailing Trust

Give sailing a go with a range of expert-led courses for adults and children.

Wetwheels Powerboating

Leaving from Falmouth

Wetwheels South West offers safe, accessible sea adventures for all disabilities.

Trebah Garden

Less than 1 mile away

This sub-tropical paradise offers exotic planting, winding paths and a private beach – perfect for a family day out.

Glendurgan Garden

Approx. 1 mile away

Wander through a peaceful valley of exotic and native plants, explore a historic maze, and end your stroll at a quiet beach.

Ferry Boat Inn

Approx. 1 mile away

A characterful coastal pub in the heart of Helford Passage, with beach access, stunning sea views, and scenic walks to nearby gems like Trebah Garden.

Helford Passage Beach

Approx. 1 mile away

A charming sand and shingle beach on the Helford Estuary, backed by the historic Ferry Boat Inn, pretty cottages, and colourful boats dotting the shoreline.

Expert-led rock pool safari

Approx. 2 miles away

Explore Falmouth’s top rock pooling spots on a fun, guided safari for all ages. Small group sessions, with 10% off for Budock Vean guests using code BUDOCKVEAN10.

Maenporth Beach

Approx. 3 miles away

A sandy cove ideal for sunbathing, rock pooling, fishing and boating with stunning views over Falmouth Bay and a beach café serving ice creams, drinks and light lunches.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary

Approx. 5.5 miles away

Visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary to meet rescued grey seal pups and learn their inspiring stories. A heartwarming, educational day out for all ages near the Cornish coast.

National Maritime Museum Cornwall

Approx. 6 miles away

Located on Discovery Quay, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall offers interactive exhibitions and galleries exploring the sea’s impact on history, culture, and adventure.

Via Ferrata

Approx. 6 miles away

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Head to Via Ferrata in Halvasso for high wires, climbing routes and Cornwall’s most epic zip wire. Fun for all the family.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust

Approx. 17 miles away

We’re proud supporters of Cornwall Wildlife Trust. Discover 50+ nature reserves across the county, home to diverse habitats, wildlife, and sites of historic interest.

St Michael’s Mount

Approx. 20 miles away

Hop on a boat or walk the causeway at low tide to explore St Michael’s Mount – a tidal island with a medieval castle, church, subtropical gardens, cafés, shops, and a unique island community.

Eden Project

Approx. 32 miles away

Built in an old clay pit, the Eden Project features giant biomes housing plants worldwide and promotes sustainability and environmental education.

Sunny harbor scene with small boats on a sandy shore, a pier and waterfront buildings, and sailboats under a blue sky.

Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival

Friday 18th - Sunday 20th June 2027

The largest free nautical music festival in Europe, the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival fills the town's pubs, streets and waterfront venues with traditional sea shanties and maritime folk music performed by groups from around the world.