Cliff Road and Gyllyngvase Beach
Best For: Watching the boats racing in the bay
If you want to watch the larger boats racing in the bay, Cliff Road and Gyllyngvase beach could be just the spot you’re looking for. Located about 5 minutes’ drive from Falmouth town centre, Cliff Road and Gyllyngvase Beach offer good views out over Falmouth Bay, where you will be able to see some of the larger boats racing in the Classics.
Facilities: Along with its lovely views and wide sandy beach, Gyllyngvase Beach boasts the Gyllngvase BeachCafé which serves drinks, ice cream and food and is equipped with outdoor seating. There is a public car park, limited on-road parking and toilet facilities are located next to the beach. There is also a well-stocked kiosk on the beach next to the café.
Castle Drive & Falmouth Docks
Best For: Watching the boats sailing in Falmouth Harbour and the Carrick Roads
Pendennis Rise, also known as Castle Drive, is a road that climbs above Falmouth Docks and is a prime site from which to watch the sailing unfold. Within walking distance of the town centre and Falmouth Docks railway station, this location offers views of Falmouth Harbour and the Carrick Roads where sailing action will be taking place. While there is a steep slope, there is on-foot access to the town centre about 1/4 mile away.
Facilities: With parking very limited, make sure you get your spot early or make use of the park and ride facilities. The nearest toilets are at Events Square. Refreshments are available from the shop by Falmouth Docks or Events Square.
Pendennis Point
Best For: Watching the Classic Parade and the Carrick Roads and Falmouth Bay racing
Among the best spots in Falmouth to catch the sailing action is Pendennis Point. Located approximately 15 minutes’ from the town centre, Pendennis Point comes equipped with views right across the Carrick Roads and Falmouth Bay, allowing for excellent viewing of the racing during the regatta. It is the ideal spot to watch the Classic Parade of Sail & Power on Sunday 18th June.
Facilities: Although parking is free to the public, it is very limited and only those who arrive early can ensure a spot. The best way to get to the spot could be to park and ride from Ponsharden and then either make use of the bus service or make your way there by foot. Facilities are limited with the closest toilets and refreshments a 10 minute walk away. Also, it could be wise to wrap up warm as with the best sailing comes strong winds. Be prepared!
St Mawes Castle
Best For: Watching the Classic Parade and the Carrick Roads racing
For those based on the Roseland side of the peninsular, St Mawes Castle makes for a perfect viewing spot. With sweeping lawns down to the headland, it also makes for a nice picnic spot on sunny days.
Facilities: The upper car park contains 15 spaces and two disabled spaces. When more parking is required, visitors can use the castle’s lower car park, which has ample space available. A set of concrete steps and a steep road separate the car parks with the site’s entrance. The parking is charged at £3.00 per car, per day, however visitors will receive a refund upon entry to the site. The nearest off-site car park is located in St Mawes village. Charges apply. You are welcome to bring a picnic to eat in the grounds. There are plenty of grassed areas and a number of bench seats, although no tables.
Footpath Viewing Points
Trefusis Point (west side of Fal) – accessed by the waterside footpath from Flushing to Mylor. Parking either at Mylor or Flushing. Good views when racing is in the Fal.
Place to St Anthony’s Head – SW Coast Footpath. Foot ferry from St Mawes to Place – good views when racing is in the entrance.
St Mawes Castle to St Just in Roseland footpath – parking at St Mawes Castle or St Just in Roseland good views of the Fal when racing is in the river.
