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The historic maritime town of Falmouth is perfectly placed to explore some of the most beautiful waters in Cornwall. Lying at the entrance to the breathtaking Carrick Roads, it is possible to voyage inland to the pretty Cathedral City of Truro, taking in the birdlife and numerous walks along the way.
Closer to the coast, it’s an easy sail directly across the Fal Estuary to St Mawes, a sailors haven with plenty to see and do. Or you can head slightly out to sea before turning west into the sheltered Helford River system, home to ancient woodlands and secluded beaches.
St Mawes
Almost directly opposite Falmouth lies the pretty village of St Mawes, easily marked thanks to the medieval coastal fortress which has guarded the Fal Estuary, along with Pendennis Castle, since 1540.
A popular place for local sailors, the harbour here offers visitor moorings as well as pontoons which can be booked in advance via their website. Handily, St Mawes Harbour offers a water taxi for visitor and mooring holders to use, all you need to do is call them on Ch12 to make arrangements.
Once ashore, we recommed a walk to stretch your legs, perhaps from the harbour up to the castle where you can take in the impressive views back towards Falmouth. Back in St Mawes, spend some time browsing in the independent shops before enjoying a pasty from the delicious quayside bakery, we believe they’re some of the best in the west!
If you fancy sitting down for a meal or few drinks then you’ll be spoilt for choice too with the renowned Tresanton Hotel (frequented by Royals), and the Idle Rocks Hotel which both welcome non-residents into their restaurants. St Mawes is also home to several welcoming local pubs such as The Rising Sun and historic Victory Inn. The village does become exceptionally busy during the peak summer months so we always highly recommend you book ahead, particularly for a sit down lunch or evening meal.
The harbour commissioners have a number of visitor moorings SE of the town which also provides a sheltered anchorage in wind from the NW through to S. In a strong southerly, swell can seep round into the harbour which can make it uncomfortable so do keep an eye on the forecast during your stay here.
Visit St Mawes Harbour
Mylor Yacht Harbour
On the west side of the Carrick Roads, there are good marina facilities and one of only 2 fuel docks in the area located at Mylor Yacht Harbour. This is great place to stop on your way in or out of the Carrick Roads as their are a range of excellent facilities plus two delicious eateries, Cafe Mylor and Castaways.
Visitors are welcome to find a berth at the E pontoon (outside breakwaters) and then report to the marina office. Short stays are charged at £5.00 for up to 2 hours.
Visit Mylor Yacht Harbour
Malpas
Perched above the confluence of three rivers in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, pretty Malpas is the perfect hideaway. The sheltered moorings here are managed by the Port of Truro with a range of visitor moorings available along with protected anchorages. Vessels up to 18m can be accommodated on one of the four detached visitors’ pontoons on the river whilst the Marina at Malpas offers short term visitor moorings for boats or tenders.
Malpas is incredibly pretty with several gentle strolls along the river as well as the popuar Heron Inn which is set overlooking the river. Take in the fantastic views, chat to the locals and of course, sample their excellent food before climbing back aboard.
Other places to visit along the Carrick Roads
From waterside pubs to historic houses and sweeping gardens, there are plenty of places to call in at along the Carrick Roads, below are just some of the places we highly recommend you visit along your way.
Pandora Inn
This thatched waterside pub dates back to the 13th Century and has won awards for its outstanding food.
St Just in Roseland Church
Said to have been visited by Jesus himself, this mesmerising riverside church has been a place of worship since the 6th Century.
Trelissick House
Set amidst 400 acres of sweeping parkland, the Trelissick House and Estate are run by the National Trust and well worth a visit.
Truro
This Cathedral city is the most southern in the UK and offers everything from retail therapy to great food and major cultural events.
The Helford River
This breathtaking waterway is famed for its incredible natural beauty with several celebrities choosing to call the area home, including Roger Taylor and Tim Rice, with Kylie Minogue featuring Frenchman’s Creek in her music video for the song ‘Flowers’.
Deemed as one of the most unspoilt areas in Cornwall, it’s easy to see why it has such a strong allure. It’s shores are fringed with sub-tropical vegetation and majestic oak woodlands whilst it’s calm waters have a mirror-like quality.
Home to numerous hamlets and villages as well as creekside pubs and hidden beaches it is easy to spend time here. While away your day swimming, reading or meandering along one of the many creeks – with over 50 miles of shoreline to explore, no two days need be the same.
As you would expect, the Helford River is a popular boating destination during the peak spring and summer months so it is highly advisable to book your mooring in advance if possible. The moorings along the Helford River are managed by Helford River Moorings and Helford River Boats.
The Helford River moorings officer can be contacted from the water on VHF Ch 37 or on 07808 071485/ 01326 250749. Should you require it, the Water Taxi can be contacted on channel 37 or via the moorings officer. The callsign is “Helford Ferry”.
