Summer In Falmouth

We depart Sussex and commence our journey westwards. Having made suitable stops en route we expect to arrive in Falmouth late afternoon.

This morning we make our way to Trelissick NT. Overlooking sweeping countryside, Trelissick House is a striking sight with its neoclassical columns. Erected by Thomas Daniell in 1824, this facade represented wealth and status.  With a more reserved interior, its true character as a relaxed space to enjoy the spectacular maritime views becomes apparent.  The house as it stands today was originally built in 1755 and each family that has occupied it has lent their vision to its appearance and scale. With each successive owner adding floors and facades, the different layers of the house become an allegory for its patchwork history. The garden is a place for plant enthusiasts and for anyone seeking a gentle walk. Hidden paths twist through the garden to spectacular maritime views.  This afternoon we travel the short distance to the City of Truro the only city in Cornwall. Cornwall’s Cathedral is situated right at the heart of Truro. Its three spires and amazing architecture dominate the city skyline, making it one of the most iconic buildings in Cornwall, with over 200,000 visitors a year. Designed by John Loughborough Pearson, Truro Cathedral has stunning architecture and some of the best examples of stained glass windows anywhere in the country and was only completed in 1910. A short walk away you might like to visit the Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery which is Cornwall’s largest museum of cultural history with stories about the life and people of Cornwall. It is home to over one million objects.

Today we take to the water. This morning we have booked tickets so you may take the ferry across The Carrick Roads to St Mawes and spend some time in the quaint fishing village before returning to Falmouth in preparation for the afternoon cruise along The Helford River. The cruise will take us out through the busy harbour, across the Falmouth Bay into the beautiful Helford River. The crew will give a commentary pointing out places of interest such as Manderlay House, Durgan, Trebah, Port Navas,  Frenchman’s Creek and much more. The cruise will last about 2hrs 15 minutes and there are refreshments and toilets on board as well as ample outdoor and indoor seating.

After a leisurely breakfast we make the short drive to Trebah Gardens. Trebah is one of  Cornwall’s great gardens and is a sub-tropical paradise with a stunning coastal backdrop. The result of 180 years of inspired and dedicated creation. We discover the magic of the beautiful valley garden, explore under the canopies bursting with exotic blooms  and follow the vibrant tunnels of colour that lead down to the secluded beach (steep walk back). The giant Gunnera is a must see highlight. There is a wonderful reception building with an award winning café as well as a shop and plant sales. Time for lunch here.   Later in the afternoon we return to our hotel

Today is a free day to spend as you wish. You might like to spend time in the town or just relax and enjoy the hotel surroundings. Don’t forget the hotel has an indoor pool and of course the beach is close by.  Alternatively, the multi award winning National Maritime Museum Cornwall houses a huge collection of boats, retells stories of intrepid explorers and provides an observation window where you can see what’s happening underwater in the harbour. Pendennis Castle is one of the finest fortresses built by Henry VIII where you can explore the restored Victorian and WWII defences (English Heritage).  The award winning Falmouth Art Gallery (free entry) is one of the leading galleries in the South West. Thursday is Market Day in Falmouth

Sadly we depart our hotel after breakfast and head for home today and, having made suitable stops en-route, we expect to be back in the Maresfield area by approximately 19.00.

Please note that the order of excursions may change.