Best Places to Stay in Falmouth: Areas and Hotels

Being one of the biggest towns in Cornwall, there are plenty of places to stay in Falmouth. This article will detail the best hotels, guesthouses and apartments in and around Falmouth, Cornwall!

With a beautiful harbour, phenomenal food scene and fascinating history, Falmouth’s well worth visiting when you’re in Cornwall. In fact, it’s my favourite seaside town in the Duchy! 

In this article, we’ll detail the best places to stay in Falmouth and the surroundings: Penryn, Flushing, Helford and St Mawes. 

From famous boutique hotels that serve a generous breakfast in their fine-dining restaurants to traditional holiday cottages with ample parking, this guide will show you the best places to stay in the town.

If you’re looking for a hotel in Falmouth, you need to look no further!

This blog post may contain affiliate links.

Places to Stay in Falmouth Town Centre

Falmouth town centre is a buzzing place, with plenty of incredible restaurants, independent shops and sandy beaches. You could easily spend a few days here and not get bored! 

Pendennis Castle: one of the best things to do in Falmouth

I highly recommend that you start your Falmouth accommodation search in the town centre.

Here are some of the attractions that you can enjoy while you’re in town:

  • Pendennis Castle: This was Henry VIII’s coastal fortress with panoramic views over Falmouth Bay.
  • The National Maritime Museum Cornwall: This museum a fantastic family-friendly museum that goes into the Duchy’s unique maritime heritage
  • Beautiful beaches: These include the blue flag Gyllyngvase Beach and Castle Beach. The blue flag beaches are beaches registered safe and clean. 
  • Restaurants: There’s a global culinary scene in Falmouth with so much delicious food!
  • Lots of fun bars: These are the perfect places to enjoy a glass of wine, Cornish beer or delicious cocktail.
  • Excellent boutique shops: Falmouth is a popular destination for shopping. 

You can see all of the things to do in Falmouth here.

As far as charming towns in Cornwall go, it’s a strong contender for the best! 

Boats inside the National Maritime Museum, one of the best Falmouth attractions

Who should stay in Falmouth town centre? 

You should stay in Falmouth if you are: 

  • A foodie: There’s excellent food here – I think it’s the best in Cornwall. In fact, I’m planning to come back to Falmouth for a foodie holiday ASAP!
  • A culture fan: There are lots of things to learn about in Falmouth! 
  • Seeking atmosphere: Falmouth is Cornwall’s only student town, so it’s a great place for a real taste of student life. However, if you’re a bit older it’s got a good atmosphere too!
  • Families with older kids: Falmouth can be a bit busy for families with younger kids to stay, but if your kids are older they will enjoy all the attractions! 
Harbour Lights famous fish and chips in Falmouth

Who shouldn’t stay in Falmouth town centre? 

Don’t stay in Falmouth if you are: 

  • Looking for somewhere quiet: There are plenty of other places in Cornwall for peace and quiet – Falmouth can be busy with holiday makers, especially in the summer months! 
  • With young kids: Plenty of families do stay in Falmouth with young kids, but you might prefer somewhere with a bit more space for them to run around! 
  • On a budget: You’ll probably find a cheap hotel elsewhere.

The best hotels in Falmouth

Here are some of the best hotels in Falmouth! 

 Seaview Inn

Views of Falmouth Harbour framed by large windows are the centre piece of the comfortable rooms of Seaview Inn, in a fantastic location in the heart of town. 

Cosy up in one of three rooms, each offering sea views and an en suite bathroom. With simple decorations and complimentary WIFI, it’s the perfect place to relax during a stay in Falmouth.

 Seaview Inn sits atop a traditional 19th-century pub still serving up the best meals in Falmouth. It has helpful staff and guests receive a lovely breakfast every morning during their stay.

Click here to read more and reserve your room.

The Sandy Duck

The friendly hospitality and hotel design of the Sandy Duck, one of the most famous boutique hotels in the area, giving travellers the perfect place to stay in Falmouth.

Walk up the steps to enter this charming historic townhouse that instantly feels like your home away from home.

 The Sandy Duck offers bed and breakfast-style accommodations.

Modern rooms boast Scandanavian-inspired décor with a simple yet elegant style. Rooms fill with light from large windows and designed light fixtures.

With a plush bed and plush seats in each room, it’s a place designed for relaxation.

Click here to read more about The Sandy Duck.

Greenbank Hotel

Tip-toe the harbour edge at The Greenbank Hotel. Sitting in an idyllic location, this is a great place to stay to be near Falmouth’s attractions.

Built in the 1640s, this historic hotel offers quality accommodation, letting guests stay in rooms that once hosted famous ship captains arriving in Falmouth.

Cool sea breeze fills up the luxurious rooms of the Greenbank Hotel. Contemporary décor create a modern living space equipped with everything you need. Updated suites offer a balcony and en suite lounge area.

The friendly staff serve a generous breakfast in the harbourside restaurant dining room every morning. You’ll love the Greenbank Hotel! 

Click here for more information about The Greenbank Hotel.

The Royal Duchy

A stay at the Royal Duchy delights travellers with a four-star luxury stay near Falmouth Town Centre. With Victorian-style architecture preserved since the late 1800s and chic modern decorations inside, it’s a unique stay of past and present luxury.

Fresh flowers welcome guests as they check into stylish accommodations decorated with elegant furniture. Upgraded suites provide spacious rooms with bay views. You can also enjoy private parking here. 

There are lots of facilities within the restaurant.Take the elevator down to award-winning AA Rosettes for a contemporary British meal before heading out to the terrace for beautiful coastal views. 

Click here for more information and to reserve your spot.

The Merchants Manor Hotel & Spa

Inspired by Falmouth’s prominent merchant families from the past, The Merchants Manor Hotel & Spa is in a fantastic location.

It transforms its early 20th-century mansion into a cosy accommodation open for guests to stay.

The Merchants Manor Hotel has uniquely designed rooms with a simple, modern flair.

Rooms are illuminated with lots of natural light as you relax on posh furniture.

In addition, guests can enjoy world-class spa facilities, an indoor pool, fitness centre and an award-winning restaurant on site.

 This hotel also has private parking for guests. 

Click here to read more and to reserve your room.

St. Michaels Resort

Plan a luxury spa getaway to St. Michaels resort. After investing millions of pounds in renovations, it’s become a premier upscale accommodation in Falmouth.

St. Michaels Resort offers elegant guest suites with modern amenities. Each room is individually decorated, with coastal-inspired colour palettes and furnishing. Upgraded rooms are available with sea view balconies.

Take advantage of the luxury spa experience and full-service health club. Also, enjoy delicious breakfasts served in a dining room with sea views.

Click here for more information.

Places to Stay in Penryn

Houses lining the harbour in Penryn, Cornwall. There are boats bobbing along the water.
Photo by Tim Green via Flickr

Penryn is a great alternative place to stay in Falmouth if you want to be near the town centre but would like cheaper accommodation. 

It sits just north of Falmouth, sitting slightly inland. 

Things to do in Penryn

Most travellers to Penryn are there to enjoy Falmouth’s attractions, but there are also a few things to do in the area. 

  • Enys Gardens are beautiful botanical gardens, ideal for a stroll
  • Stithians Lake is also nearby. This is one of my favourite hidden gems in Cornwall where you can try watersports and camp by the lake’s edge. 
  • Penryn is also closer to other places in Cornwall like Truro, Camborne and Redruth.
Things to do at Stithians Lake

Who should stay in Penryn? 

Stay in Penryn if you are: 

  • A budget traveller: hotels generally have affordable prices here when compared to Falmouth. 
  • Keen to day trip: It’s easier to get from Penryn to other destinations in Cornwall – you won’t have to drive through Falmouth’s traffic!

Who shouldn’t stay in Penryn? 

You might want to stay otherwise if you are: 

  • Going to Cornwall for the beaches: It’s not far from the Cornish coast, but all of the other destinations on this list are closer!
  • Want atmosphere: Penryn is right by the university campus and has stuff going on. But Falmouth has more of a holiday atmosphere. 

Hotels in Penryn

Here are some of the best places to stay in Penryn!

Bay View Bed and Breakfast

Stay in one of three rooms available at Bay View Bed and Breakfast. The family-run guest house provides guests with attentive service from the moment you check in.

The recent renovations of the Bay View B&B have transformed its guestrooms into comfortable suites complete with traditional country-style furniture and tech upgrades like flat-screen TVs.

Bay View B&B offers views of the Falmouth Estuary accompanied by a home-cooked lovely breakfast in the morning.

Click here to reserve your room.

The Thirsty Scholar

Drinks are abundant at the Thirsty Scholar, but rooms upstairs make it easy to enjoy a pint in the downstairs pub before retreating to a cosy accommodation to spend the night.

The Thirsty Scholar has four rooms appointed with basic necessities for a comfortable stay. The casual room arrangement includes large beds and en suite bathrooms. Step into the outdoor garden after settling in and admire the views of the Penryn river.

Click here to book your stay.

Places to Stay in Flushing

A view from Falmouth over the river to Flushing in Cornwall. There are boats sailing along the river. Houses are lining the water and there are hills and trees in the background.
Photo by Tim Green via Flickr

Flushing is a charming village sitting across the Penryn River. It has a similar atmosphere to St Mawes (although without the castle!) but it’s an easy drive or boat ride to Falmouth centre. 

It has a lovely atmosphere and is a much slower pace of life than Falmouth – and you can catch beautiful views over the river!

There are also quite a few accommodation options within Falmouth, although hotels can be pricey. 

There are a few things to do in Flushing itself: 

  • Walk around the village and admire the beautiful cottages
  • Flushing beach: This is a short walk away from the centre
  • Have a drink: There are two pubs in the village

Who should stay in Flushing? 

Stay in Flushing if: 

  • You want to be close to Falmouth, but somewhere quieter
  • You like riverside views and small, quiet towns
  • You’re travelling with kids

Who shouldn’t stay in Flushing

 Consider staying elsewhere if: 

  • You want to stay somewhere lively
  • You want to be well connected to other parts of Cornwall

New Quay House

Initially built in 1703 as a private residence for a wealthy merchant ship captain, New Quay House is a historic hotel offering accommodations for visitors to Flushing. It sits at the end of a quay on the Falmouth Harbour waterfront, creating a serene environment for your stay.

New Quay House feels like home as you walk through the spacious property. Each of the rooms is well-appointed with plush beds and seating. The bright-coloured rooms and wood accents give them a touch of luxury.

Click here to read more and reserve your spot.

Fisherman’s Cottage

The pink façade of the Fisherman’s Cottage offers self-catering accommodation.

It stands out in the row houses lining the dock in Flushing, where you’ll be steps away from the water.

Fisherman’s Cottage received a modern makeover to create a contemporary space.

Rooms feature minimalist style with predominantly white furniture accented by colourful décor and art.

Guests have access to shared common spaces like a dining room and outdoor patio.

In beautiful surroundings, this self-catering accommodation is a romantic hideaway for couples or a great place for friends and families to stay. 

Read more and reserve your stay by clicking here.

Places to Stay in Helford

A picturesque view of Helford River with greenery in the foreground.
Hotel by Tom Green via Flickr

Helford is a charming village a short drive from Falmouth. Its location makes it the perfect place to enjoy both the countryside and Falmouth itself! 

There are a few things to do in and around Helford: 

  • Coastal walks along the South West Coast Path. This is a particularly pretty part of the South Coast of Cornwall. 
  • Trebah Gardens, acres of gardens which are among the best in Cornwall. 
  • This is the start of the Lizard Peninsula, one of the ‘wildest’ parts of Cornwall with a few different attractions. Enjoy beautiful beaches (Kynance Cove is the most famous, but there are others!), the southernmost part of the UK and locally sourced food like the ice cream at Roskillys.
  • You can also take walks along the scenic Helford River

Who should stay in Helford? 

Consider staying in Helford if you are: 

  • With kids: This is one of the best natural areas near Falmouth, with lots of holiday homes and plenty of places for them to play!
  • On an adventure: You could split your time between Falmouth and the wild Lizard peninsula. Or, you could walk along the Helford River! 
  • A hiker: the South West Coast Path is right on your doorstep, which is a trail with the most spectacular sea views. 
  • Want space: there are some self-catering holiday accommodation options in Helford. These traditional holiday cottages are ideal for people who are visiting Cornwall as a group. 

Who shouldn’t stay in Helford? 

Consider elsewhere if you are: 

  • After nightlife: you won’t get it in Helford! 
  • Want restaurants: It’s very limited in Helford
  • Want to day trip to other parts of Cornwall: you can, but it will take you a little bit longer

2 Trerise Cottage

Staying at the 2 Trerise Cottage puts you in one of the best locations in Helford, an idyllic location just walking distance from town or the beach. Turn this quaint 19th-century self-catering cottage into your holiday vacation home.

Guests have three spacious bedrooms featuring traditional furniture, TV, Wifi, and more. It offers a warm welcome with flowers places in each room. Enjoy a night of cooking in the fully-equipped kitchen or relax in the cosy living room.

Click here to read about 2 Trerise Cottage and to book your place.

Marnylunn

Run by Classic Cottages, this self-catering accommodation is an absolute dream. It has a private heated swimming pool with two poolside bedrooms and two other bedrooms, a BBQ and fire pit.

It’s the ideal place near Falmouth to enjoy a ‘holiday’ vibe but still be in a stone’s throw from the town.

Classic Cottages are a popular Cornish holiday letting company. You can see some of their best cottages here.

Places to Stay in St. Mawes

St Mawes Castle

St Mawes sits across the River Fal from Falmouth, a 10-minute journey by boat but an hour away by road!

As long as you don’t mind the ferry crossing, it’s easy to stay in St Mawes and enjoy the attractions of Falmouth. 

St Mawes itself is a lovely village with that quintessential Cornish charm that many holidaymakers look for. 

Plus, it’s relatively easy to get from here to other places in South Cornwall, such as Mevagissey, Fowey, the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project. 

You might also find hotels at affordable prices here. 

Things to do in St Mawes

  • St Mawes Castle is the sister to Pendennis Castle, sitting across the River Fal. Like Pendennis Castle, it was also created by Henry VIII to defend the estuary. It’s worth visiting for the inscriptions about Edward VI and the stunning sea views. 
  • Lamorran Gardens are beautiful subtropical gardens located a short walk from the village centre. 
  • Summers Beach is St Mawes small beach, the perfect place to relax on with an ice cream in hand! 

Who should stay in St Mawes? 

St Mawes might be good for you if you are

  • Looking to stay in the Falmouth area, but don’t want to spend all your time there: you will need to take a boat to get to Falmouth – but you’ll get a nice view of it!
  • Hoping to stay somewhere quiet: St Mawes is much more relaxed than Falmouth.
  • Staying with kids: As St Mawes is more relaxed and it’s in a good location for family-friendly attractions like the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, it could be a great place to stay with kids. 
  • Want a seaside holiday: You could stay around St Mawes beaches area for a beach holiday. 

Who shouldn’t stay in St Mawes

You might want to stay otherwise if

  • You want to go to Falmouth and don’t like boats: As I mentioned, it’s difficult to drive there from St Mawes! 
  • You want excellent restaurants: St Mawes does have restaurants, but they’re nothing compared to Falmouth 
  • You want atmosphere: St Mawes isn’t as ‘buzzy’ as Falmouth. 
Boat trip to St Mawes

Hotels in St Mawes

Ship and Castle

Ship and Castle is an elegant hotel sitting at the intersection of River Fal and Percuil.

The sun terrace has a view overlooking St. Mawes is the first thing to grab your attention, but the rooms are worth all the buzz.

Guests at this quality accommodation can enjoy contemporary-designed rooms with bright colour accents.

The modern rooms offer comfortable beds, seating, en suite bathrooms, and more. Step out onto the balcony of an upgraded suite to enjoy harbour views right from your room.

Ship and Castle includes a fine-dining restaurant with a harbourside dining room for a picturesque meal.

Click here for more information.

The Idle Rocks

The contemporary Idle Rocks hotel in Mawes gives guests a taste of modern luxury. This luxury boutique hotel was voted one of Europe’s best beach hotels with lovely rooms and the perfect location.

 The Idle Rocks has 19 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with its own style. The bright rooms feature modern furniture with beds topped with Egyptian cotton and heat floors for the en suite bathroom.

Dine in at the Idle Rocks Restaurant to enjoy views of River Fal while eating fresh seafood prepared daily.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Falmouth, hopefully this post has helped! There are some of the best Cornwall hotels here.

Click here to read more about The Idle Rocks and reserve your stay.

Whether you’re looking for somewhere in a stone’s throw of the National Maritime Museum, stay by Gyllyngvase Beach, or want to ensure that you have an indoor swimming pool, this list of accommodation in Cornwall’s biggest south coast town should help you to decide! 

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *