Falmouth is famous the world over for its harbour, it being the third deepest natural harbour in the world and according to Falmouth Town Council it is by far the deepest in Western Europe. Many people throughout the centuries have used Falmouth’s sheltered port as a starting or finishing point for their voyages including Sir Francis Chichester and Dame Ellen Mac Arthur.
Falmouth is home to nearly 22,000 residents many of which are working professional, students and retirees- this figure does not account for the summer season where Falmouth and indeed the entire county of Cornwall sees a dramatic rise in population due to Falmouth being a popular tourism destination.
Falmouth according to historic records used to be known as Penny Come Quick, and it was not until a man of significant importance Sir John Killigrew established Falmouth as a town circa 1613.
During times of threat, civil ware and invasion Pendennis castle was and still stands dominant like a kings crown. Todays the castle is preserving its wild and historic past and is looked after by the English Heritage and regularly host themed events which are insightful into that period.
The port of Falmouth was home to the Falmouth Packet ship and Packet Service which ran for one hundred and sixty years – hauling post to and from what was at the time an expansive British Empire. Strategically located Falmouth was the most southerly port and therefore quite often a popular choice for any seafarers returning home including the Royal Navy.
Falmouth’s port was one a very important strategic hub, now not so much, the dock yard is not as busy as it was ‘back in the day’, and however it is and will remain an important contributor to the local jobs market and the wider economy of Cornwall.
Falmouth’s student population has steadily increased in recent years due to the introduction of a campus in Penryn and the unification of several of the South Wests Universities and Colleges to form the Combined Universities in Cornwall. The University specialise in Arts, Graphic design, design and media amongst others and the creative talents of the student population have added some vibrancy to the local population.
Falmouth’s coast provides some fantastic views and beaches a real beauty to the beholder. Many of the most prestige and popular hotels are located along castle drive the long stretch of road which runs parallel with Gylingvase beach – the perfect beach for a paddle and a bathe?
Falmouth and indeed Cornwall as a whole have a lot to offer prospective tourists, being a stones throw from all of this history, culture and the seaside is just a handful of reasons why you should pack your bags and head down to beautiful Falmouth.
