What To Do In Falmouth This Christmas?
Christmas is a time for giving, so we’re giving a shout-out to our wonderful neighbours on Falmouth’s Old High Street.
Year-round Falmouth is a vibrant hub of great independent shops, award-winning places to eat, and unmissable art galleries. But come Christmas time, the town is even more inviting and full of festive cheer! It’s the perfect opportunity to browse the shops or stop for a cocktail at that bar you’ve been meaning to visit all year…
We’ve also welcomed a few new independent shops (Studio Dor, Ondine Ash) and a new restaurant (Hevva) to Falmouth’s Old High Street this year, and they have been such fantastic additions.
A Guide To Independent Shopping In Falmouth
Did you know that the vast majority of Falmouth businesses are independent? The town is full of entrepreneurial spirit and this is exemplified in the variety of shops found on the Old High Street. Every business is locally owned and run, and we all work together to make sure residents and visitors alike get a great experience when they venture up the street. It’s a steep hill – but trust us, it’s worth it!
Many of the buildings are Grade II listed – including Inspire Makers. The original street, developed in the 17th century was called, ‘Ludgate Hill’. At the top, the congregational chapel still stands but has passed through several guises and the building is now home to an art and antiques shop. Built as a chapel in 1705 the building was then bought by the Killigrews and became the Town Hall around 1725. It was also used as a courthouse and in 1884 was the scene of a trial that saw two sailors tried, and acquitted, for eating a cabin boy when their ship sank and they were cast adrift.
Opposite Inspire Makers is Barracks Ope with a glorious view down to the Fal river. This is a historical archway built in the 17th century leading down the harbour, once the entrance to the Royal Marine barracks.
The mid-section of the high street was destroyed in 1862 by one of the largest fires recorded in Cornwall, resulting in 400 people being made homeless. Today’s road is actually 10 feet wider than it was prior to rebuilding after the blaze.
Where To Eat And Drink In Falmouth This Christmas?
There’s a great selection of food and drink emporiums on The Old High Street, and you can easily feed yourself in style without leaving the street.
For breakfast or a light lunch, I recommend Stones Bakery, their pastries are divine. Wash it down with a coffee from Beacon. Follow up with dinner at Restaurant Mine in a lively courtyard setting, seafood restaurant Hevva, or small plates from underground at The Mulberry. Finish with cocktails at Chintz Symposium, and their sister venue Underland (literally underneath)!
Head to the top of the road and you will also see The Boathouse and The Working Boat – not strictly part of the High Street but they do have some of the most spectacular views of the river and across to Flushing. Great for a traditional pub ambience, watching sport and having a hearty pub meal.
Where To Buy Artisan Gifts In Falmouth?
The self-styled “Artisan Quarter” of Falmouth, we are home to many creative arts businesses. There’s Inspire Makers, of course, then a few doors down you will find Mirri Damer, an exceptional jeweller who crafts the most amazing pieces from gold and precious stones. New to Falmouth’s Old High Street is Studio Dor and Ondine Ash – both of which are beautifully curated with gorgeous clothing and homewares.
Jezebel houses a jeweller/piercer and tattoo artist, plus a selection of work by local artists. Stitches & Cream are purveyors of the finest independent haberdashery and wools and also offer workshops. Star Glazers pottery and painting cafe has something for all ages whether that be a few hours painting with the kids or spending an evening with friends at a “gin and paint” session. Explore our Cornish Gift Guide blog for more inspiration.
Clothes and Homeware Shops In Falmouth
Whether you are looking for a gift for yourself, your home or your garden you will find everything you need on the High Street.
Parade stocks a seasonal range of gorgeous clothes and accessories perfect for presents. The previously mentioned Studio Dor and Ondine Ash stock a selection of locally made and organic clothing.
Cloudberry Living is a home interiors shop specialising in modern Scandinavian design and Grey Lurcher has an eclectic mix of gift brands and upcycling paints such as Annie Sloan and Cornish Mineral Paint.
Celebrating a year on The Old High Street, Love and Honour sells beautiful flowers, plants and a range of contemporary gifts for your home. If you need curtains and blinds, head to Cornish Curtains for a made-to-measure service.
Falmouth Preloved And Vintage Shops
Round off your visit to the High Street by browsing our unmissable set of antique, book and record shops.
The Old Town Hall Gallery is a quirky mix of antiques and art curated by the owner. Ludgate House Antiques has a fast-turning selection of 18th to 20th Century finds and decorative items and is the organiser of Enys House’s annual antiques fair. High Street Bazaar offers a handpicked selection of vintage and antique pieces chosen for their eccentricity, aesthetics and history.
Greenbank Books is a treasure trove of second-hand and rare books, specialising in Maritime, Aviation, Art & Design, Motoring and Railways. Jam Records has two floors of new and preloved vinyl, plus books and journals, coffee and sofas!
So Why Not Pay A Visit To Falmouth Old High Street?
Most shops are open Tuesday to Saturday but check websites for individual opening times. Shop local and support independent businesses.
Stay in the Heart of Falmouth
Alongside Inspire Makers, we have a self-catering private holiday apartment that has been lovingly renovated, and is the perfect place for a decadent retreat for two. Situated right in the heart of Falmouth’s Old High Street, with immediate access to the town’s bakeries, beaches, bars, galleries, independent shops, and much more, it is a perfect spot to make the most of Falmouth.
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