With beautiful beaches, superb surfing spots, a feast of fabulous food and drink establishments and quirky independent shops, it’s comes as no surprise that Falmouth has been voted the UK’s Coastal Community of the Year.
The harbour town was revealed as Costal Community of the Year by The Great British High Street Awards 2016. The annual awards aim to find the UK’s Great British High Street of the Year. It involves four weeks of campaigning, 27 judges’ visits and more than 500,000 votes before a final list of category winners is announced.
Falmouth was crowned Coastal Community of the Year, beating runners-up Prestatyn in Wales and Sea View Street in Cleethorpes.
A spokesperson for the High Street of the Year Award said: “In an incredibly tough category, Falmouth came out on top. Collaboration is key in this coastal community, with the local authority working closely with the BID and Town Team. The strong marketing and events on offer and the lowest vacancy rate in the South-West, blew our judges away.”
Falmouth may have lost out to Blackburn for this year’s Great British High Street of the Year, the town has plenty of reasons to celebrate. Here are just a few:
Maritime heritage
Home to the world’s third largest natural deep-water harbour, Falmouth has fascinating maritime history, all of which is shared and relived in the National Maritime Museum Cornwall. From stories on the high seas to displays of boats, the museum is packed with interesting information about the town’s heritage. There’s even an observation window that lets you see what’s going on under water.
Festivals and events
Famed for its lively festival scene, you’re sure to find an event of some kind taking place at different times during the year. From food festivals, to the popular Falmouth Regatta and Pendennis Cup, the town’s colourful events calendar is certainly worth celebrating! Judges said they were ‘blown away’ by the events on offer and we can see why!
Shops and art galleries
A mix of independent stores and creative art galleries line Falmouth’s streets. From fantastic freshly caught seafood and locally made meals, to unique and beautiful art work, you’re sure to find a selection of hidden gems whilst strolling through the town. One of the South West’s leading art galleries is also situated in the town; Falmouth Art Gallery. It’s free and family friendly!
With too much to list here, there’s only one way to get a good feel for Falmouth and, that’s by paying a visit!
