Falmouth is a town that punches well above its weight when it comes to sightseeing options. Unlike larger cities, Falmouth offers a charming mix of history, maritime tradition, and quirky attractions—perfect for exploring on foot or through interactive experiences. We especially love the Falmouth Uncovered Walking Tour because it combines lively storytelling with a visit to historic sights like Killigrew Monument and Market Street, all with a dash of humor that makes history fun. For those interested in a spooky twist, the Falmouth Ghost Tour delivers eerie tales and ghostly legends that add a thrilling edge to an evening stroll. If you prefer exploring at your own pace, the Self-Guided Tour Through Falmouth’s Seafaring Past offers flexibility and insight into the town’s maritime roots. And for tech-savvy travelers, the Falmouth Tour App with Hidden Gems and Big Britain Quiz turns sightseeing into a game, making discovery interactive and competitive.
This guide covers a variety of options, from guided walking adventures to self-led explorations and digital tours—each offering a unique way to experience Falmouth’s history, legends, and scenic spots. Whether you want a quick introduction, a spooky story session, or an independent scavenger hunt, you’ll find something that fits your style and schedule. Below, we detail each tour to help you choose the right fit.
1. Falmouth Uncovered Walking Tour (Award Winning)
At number 1, the Falmouth Uncovered Walking Tour stands out for its engaging storytelling and rich historical detail. This tour, rated 5.0/5 from 230 reviews, offers a 1.5-hour walk through the city’s most interesting sights. The guide shares lively stories about Falmouth’s pirates, shipbuilders, and even its more colorful past — like the notorious Smithick Hill. It’s a perfect choice if you’re short on time but want a deep dive into the town’s history.
The tour begins at Killigrew Monument, where you learn about the pirate family that founded Falmouth, then moves to Custom House Quay to see how this small port became a maritime powerhouse. Walking up Gyllyng Street, you’ll get a glimpse of Falmouth’s melting pot of nationalities — sailors, merchants, and religious groups living side by side. The tour ends on Market Street, where stories of old Falmouth’s less savory activities come to life, including tales of cannibal arrivals and nightlife. The guide’s use of period costumes, accordion playing, and humor make this tour memorable. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors, history lovers, and families with children thanks to the activity sheet provided for kids.
Bottom line: If you want an entertaining, informative stroll packed with local lore, this tour offers excellent value and a lively pace.
2. The Falmouth Ghost Tour
Next up is the Falmouth Ghost Tour, which also earned a perfect 5.0/5 from 41 reviews. This 1-hour walk is all about the spooky stories that haunt Falmouth’s streets and harbor. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll explore sites like Prince of Wales Pier, High Street, and Fish Strand Quay, hearing tales of tragedy, murder, and ghostly appearances.
The tour balances fun and fright, with stories of shipwrecks, retribution, and the ghost of a local lad. The guide’s storytelling style is lively and engaging, and the incorporation of costumes and music—like playing songs on an accordion—adds extra flair. It’s a great choice for night owls, fans of ghost stories, or anyone looking for a slightly eerie but entertaining experience. The tour ends near the harbor, making it easy to continue your evening in town.
Bottom line: If a spooky, fun evening exploring Falmouth’s haunted side appeals, this tour delivers with a mix of storytelling, theatricality, and local legend.
3. A Self-Guided Tour Through Falmouth’s Seafaring Past
For visitors who like carving their own path, the Self-Guided Tour Through Falmouth’s Seafaring Past provides a flexible way to explore the town’s maritime history. With a modest price of $8.99, this tour covers key landmarks like Jacobs Ladder, Falmouth Library, and the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, all at your own pace.
This tour is ideal for those who prefer to soak in the sights without a scheduled guide. You’ll pass historic buildings and scenic spots while learning about Falmouth’s early 1600s harbor hotel, its growth as a shipping hub, and its role in naval and commercial shipping. The route is designed for about an hour, but you can take more time if you wish. It’s perfect for independent travelers, families, or anyone with a curiosity for Falmouth’s seafaring legacy.
The main advantage is the freedom to pause and explore or snap photos where you find interesting. Though it lacks guided commentary, the self-paced format makes it accessible for all fitness levels and schedules.
Bottom line: This option is best for curious explorers who appreciate flexibility and want to control their experience without sacrificing historical context.
4. Falmouth Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass)
Finally, the Falmouth Tour App with Hidden Gems and Big Britain Quiz offers a tech-savvy alternative perfect for groups or solo explorers with a competitive streak. For around $20.64, up to ten people can access a 4-hour adventure filled with map-based challenges, puzzles, and quizzes.
This app-based tour guides you via GPS to discover secret spots and lesser-known details while encouraging you to beat others in a nationwide quiz league. It’s an engaging way to explore different parts of Falmouth without rigid schedules. It suits those who enjoy problem-solving, digital interactions, and friendly competition. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that makes sightseeing accessible and fun for families or friends traveling together.
An added bonus is that you can choose when to start, making it perfect for independent travelers or those with unpredictable schedules. The only caveat is that it requires a smartphone and a bit of familiarity with digital apps.
Bottom line: If you like interactive experiences and want the freedom to explore at your own pace, this app-based tour offers a modern, competitive twist on sightseeing.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, schedule, and travel style. If you want a lively, humorous introduction to Falmouth’s history, the Falmouth Uncovered Walking Tour is hard to beat. For a spooky evening, the Ghost Tour provides fun scares and local lore. If you prefer exploring independently, the Self-Guided Tour offers flexibility and depth at your own pace. Finally, tech enthusiasts and families might enjoy the Hidden Gems App and Quiz for an interactive, game-style adventure.
When booking, consider your budget, how much time you have, and what kind of experience you want—whether it’s a guided story walk, a spooky night outing, a self-guided exploration, or a game-based digital adventure. Early booking is recommended, especially for popular tours like the walking and ghost options, to secure your preferred time slot.
Falmouth offers a diverse range of tours that cater to both history lovers and fun-seekers. From engaging walking stories and ghost tales to flexible self-guided routes and high-tech scavenger hunts, there’s something for all. If you’re trying to decide, think about whether you prefer guided storytelling, independent exploration, or interactive challenges. With a little planning, you’ll find a tour that fits your schedule and style perfectly—so don’t hesitate to book early and secure your spot in this charming Cornish town.
