Falmouth is a great place to visit as a family at any time of year, as there’s so much to see and do, whatever the weather. A sunny winter day is the ideal time to go to the beach. Just wrap up warm and get ready for an adventure!
Gyllyngvase beach is just a short walk from the centre of Falmouth (there’s also a car park right next to the beach if you prefer to drive). This easily accessible, sandy beach holds a coveted Blue Flag award. There’s a seasonal dog ban which runs from Easter – October, but it’s a popular beach with dog owners during the rest of the year.
Gylly, as it’s known locally, often gets busy during the height of the summer. But in the winter youโll have plenty of space to yourselves.ย At low tide, there are some excellent rock pools to explore – so don’t forget your wellies!
Family friendly Gylly Beach Cafe is popular with locals and tourists alike. It has a good range of food on offer, plus home made cakes and snacks. Their kidsโ colouring sheets and pots of crayons are a nice touch. Theyโre also one of the most eco-friendly cafes around, and are committed to reducing their impact on the environment as well as making a real effort to source their produce locally.
Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas of the cafe (there are heaters and blankets so you don’t get chilly).
Itโs a great place to warm up in the winter, as you can sit by the huge windows and watch the waves. Although theyโre nowhere near as wild as on the north coast, they can still be pretty impressive. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the Coastguard practising sea rescuesย here!
There’s also a lovely little garden right next to the beach that’s worth popping in to. There are some unusual plants here, and level paths that are suitable for buggies or kids learning to ride bikes.
You never know what you might see at the beach โ and thatโs the beauty of it. From amazing crabs and other rock pool life to seals, kayakers, and even helicopter action, there’s always something happening!
Other top activities in Falmouth with kids
- Walk along the coastal path (10 mins) to Swanpool, where you can hire kayaks or play crazy golf
- Visit nearbyย Pendennis Castle and get hands-on with history
- Check out the award-winning National Maritime Museuum Cornwallย and find out about Falmouthโs seafaring past
- Grab fish and chips at Rick Steinโs
Getting there
Gylly Beach is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Bosinver. Postcode for SatNavsย TR11 4NA. Alternatively, Falmouth is easily reached by train from St Austell (change at Truro to board the Maritime Line to Falmouth). The station is a short walk from the beach.
What are your favourite family activities in Cornwall? Leave a comment below, post on our Facebook page or tweet @Bosinver – we’d love to hear your suggestions!
