St Mawes Cornwall
A charming Cornish village on the Roseland Peninsula, known for its picturesque harbour, historic castle, and relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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St Mawes Cornwall
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Cornish village on the Roseland Peninsula, known for its picturesque harbour, historic castle, and relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
"St Mawes is often referred to as the Saint-Tropaz of the UK for its picturesque harbour."
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Parking in St Mawes can be limited, especially during peak season. Consider arriving by ferry or walking if possible.
🚶♀️ Coastal path walks
Explore the stunning Roseland Peninsula with beautiful coastal path walks offering breathtaking views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St Mawes Castle
Eastern side of Falmouth harbour
A 16th-century artillery fort offering panoramic views of the Carrick Roads and the surrounding coastline. Explore its history and enjoy the scenery.
Picturesque Harbour
St Mawes village centre
The heart of the village, lined with colourful houses and boats. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, or enjoying a waterside meal.
Falmouth Ferry Trip
St Mawes Harbour to Falmouth
A scenic and convenient boat trip connecting St Mawes to the vibrant town of Falmouth. Runs frequently, offering lovely coastal views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Fun & Ferry Hassles
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Parking in St Mawes can be limited, especially during peak season. Consider arriving by ferry or walking if possible.
🚶♀️ Coastal path walks
Explore the stunning Roseland Peninsula with beautiful coastal path walks offering breathtaking views.
☕ Morning pastries
Don't miss out on morning pastries from local bakeries like @dabarast_mawes for a delicious start to your day.
🛶 Kayaking adventures
Rent a kayak to explore the river and coastline at your own pace for a unique perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Parking in St Mawes can be limited, especially during peak season. Consider arriving by ferry or walking if possible.
🚶♀️ Coastal path walks
Explore the stunning Roseland Peninsula with beautiful coastal path walks offering breathtaking views.
☕ Morning pastries
Don't miss out on morning pastries from local bakeries like @dabarast_mawes for a delicious start to your day.
🛶 Kayaking adventures
Rent a kayak to explore the river and coastline at your own pace for a unique perspective.
🐶 Dog-friendly options
Many cottages and activities are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for pet owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about St Mawes' undeniable charm, picturesque harbour, and the scenic ferry journey from Falmouth. It's praised as a tranquil escape with beautiful coastal walks and historical sites like St Mawes Castle. Some find parking challenging and accommodation can be on the pricier side.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach St Mawes is by taking the ferry from Falmouth, which runs year-round. You can also drive, but parking can be challenging.
Yes, the St Mawes ferry generally allows dogs, making it easy to bring your furry friend along for the trip.
Bicycles are allowed on the St Mawes ferry, but you may be asked to remove panniers. Staff are usually happy to assist with loading.
The ferry runs multiple times per hour in summer and once per hour in winter. It's best to check the official ferry website for the most up-to-date schedule.
While the ferry is a key public transport link, St Mawes itself is a small village. Buses do serve the area, but the ferry is often the most convenient and scenic option from Falmouth.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for St Mawes Castle can often be purchased on arrival, but booking in advance is recommended during peak season to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Opening hours for St Mawes Castle vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the English Heritage website for the most current information before your visit.
There is no entrance fee to visit St Mawes harbour itself; it's a public area. Fees would apply for specific attractions like St Mawes Castle or boat hire.
Discounts may be available for English Heritage members, families, or groups. Check the English Heritage website for details on pricing and concessions.
Ferry tickets can typically be purchased at the ferry terminal in Falmouth or St Mawes. Advance booking might be available online for certain services or during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Top activities include visiting St Mawes Castle, exploring the picturesque harbour, taking a ferry trip to Falmouth, enjoying coastal walks, and relaxing on the beaches.
Yes, St Mawes is situated on the Roseland Peninsula, offering beautiful coastal path walks with stunning sea views and access to hidden coves.
Boat hire is available in St Mawes, offering options from hourly to full-day rentals, perfect for exploring the coastline and river.
Absolutely! St Mawes is a fantastic destination for a day trip, especially if arriving by ferry from Falmouth. You can easily explore the village and castle within a few hours.
St Mawes is known for its relaxed, slow pace of life and charming, picturesque atmosphere, often compared to a more tranquil version of a French Riviera town.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
St Mawes offers a range of dining options, from pubs like The Ship and Castle to hotels with restaurants like The Tresanton and The Idle Rocks, as well as local cafes and bakeries.
Many pubs and cafes in St Mawes are dog-friendly, especially those with outdoor seating areas. It's always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand.
While in Cornwall, try traditional pasties, fresh seafood, Cornish ice cream, and cream teas. St Mawes offers excellent opportunities to sample these.
Yes, hotels like The Tresanton and The Idle Rocks offer high-end dining experiences with beautiful sea views, perfect for a special occasion.
You can enjoy breakfast at various cafes, bakeries (like @dabarast_mawes), and hotels in St Mawes, often with delicious local produce.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the harbour, colourful cottages, St Mawes Castle, and the panoramic sea views from the coastal paths. The ferry journey also offers great photo opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, ideal for capturing the charm of the village and coastline.
The area around St Mawes Castle provides excellent elevated views. Walking along the coastal paths in either direction from the village also offers numerous scenic vantage points.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and village scenes. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive coastal views, and a telephoto can be useful for distant details.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and airspace restrictions before flying a drone in St Mawes or surrounding areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss a visit to St Mawes Castle, which is engaging for kids with its historical features and open spaces to explore. The ferry trip to Falmouth is also an exciting part of the day for children. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options can be spread out.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting outside of peak summer months for potentially lower accommodation prices if staying overnight. Many of the best experiences, like walking the coastal paths and exploring the harbour, are free.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a private boat hire for a more intimate experience on the water, or simply find a quiet spot on a coastal path to enjoy the serene beauty together. The village's charm makes it perfect for a relaxing and romantic break.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring St Mawes Castle
Insider Tip: Climb to the top for the most expansive vistas, especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset. The castle grounds are also perfect for a leisurely stroll and a picnic.
Managed by English Heritage, the castle offers a glimpse into Cornwall's coastal defence history and is a must-visit for history buffs and photographers alike.
The Charm of St Mawes Harbour
This area is perfect for a leisurely wander, with independent shops, art galleries, and cafes lining the waterfront. It's an ideal spot to soak in the relaxed atmosphere, watch the comings and goings of the boats, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or an ice cream.
Many visitors describe St Mawes as the 'Saint-Tropez of the UK' due to its affluent feel and beautiful coastal setting, yet it retains a genuine Cornish charm.
Getting Around: The St Mawes Ferry
For cyclists, be aware that you might need to remove panniers before boarding, a detail noted by travelers. The ferry staff are generally helpful, so don't hesitate to ask for assistance with luggage or bikes.
This ferry service is crucial for St Mawes' connectivity, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for day-trippers and those looking for a seamless transition between two distinct Cornish experiences.



Social
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