In a very sheltered spot at the junction of the Percuil River and Carrick Roads on the Roseland Peninsula, St Mawes is the sort of Cornish fishing village that makes you wonder if you’ve accidentally wandered into a postcard. Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, family days, or a solo escape with your camera and a good book, there’s plenty to keep you busy. So pop on your sunnies (even if it’s cloudy – this is still a holiday), and let’s dive into the best things to do in St Mawes, Cornwall.
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St Mawes Things To Do
Crystal-clear waters? Tick. Cream teas with a sea view? Tick. Crumbling castles and cheeky seagulls? Oh yes, tick, tick, tick. Here are all of the things to do St Mawes:
1. St Mawes Castle
One of the things to do in St Mawes for families is to visit St Mawes Castle. Built by Henry VIII, it is one of the best-preserved coastal forts in the UK. Climb the spiral staircases, admire the panoramic views across the Fal Estuary, and channel your inner knight or damsel. Bring a picnic for the lawn – it’s a cracking spot for sandwiches alongside the cannons.
🐾 Dogs on leads welcome
English Heritage Members Get Free Entry
An English Heritage Membership is a game-changer. As a member, I get free entry to incredible sites all over the UK, including dog friendly gems! It’s saved me a fortune, especially when exploring Cornwall and Devon. Now that I’m in my second year of membership, I get free access to CADW sites in Wales, too! Plus, there are discounts on stays, food, and events.
Membership Prices (2025):
- Individual (18+) – £82 a year (£6.83 per month)
- Senior (65+) – £69 a year (£5.75 per month)
- Joint (2 adults) – £144 a year (£12 per month)
- Family – Same as individual/joint, and kids go free!
- Occasionally, there are special offers on joining.
English Heritage Offer
English Heritage Deals: Get 20% off memberships purchased by direct debit by using the promo code PV20OFF at the checkout. It is valid until 31 December 2025. Making a single membership £57.60 per year and a couple’s membership £100.20. Get yours here.
2. St Mawes to Falmouth Ferry
Feeling nautical? The St Mawes Ferry offers a convenient 20-minute boat ride to Falmouth, with breathtaking views of the coastline. It’s a stress-free way to explore, especially if you prefer not to navigate the Cornish country roads. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so your furry companion can enjoy the sea breeze as much as you do.
🐾 Dog friendly
Things To Do In Falmouth
Falmouth, a lively harbour town, is a treasure trove of maritime charm and diverse activities. From the fascinating National Maritime Museum to the scenic Gyllyngvase Beach, there’s something for everyone. You can even embark on a boat trip for dolphin spotting. The town is brimming with unique shops, cosy cafés, and seafood spots, making it perfect for a relaxed day out. And don’t miss Pendennis Castle, another gem from English Heritage, perched proudly on the headland with epic sea views and centuries of history to uncover.
3. Wander Along the Harbour
St Mawes’ harbour is the heart of the village – a buzzy little hub where fishing boats bob and cafés serve everything from pasties to posh seafood. It’s a great spot for crabbing off the harbour wall, a fun activity for the whole family. Or treat yourself to a proper Cornish ice cream (clotted cream on top? Obviously), watch the boats come and go, and try not to drop your chips – the seagulls are ruthless.
However, I’d highly recommend getting a crab sandwich from the St Mawes Seafood Bar – it’s one of the best I’ve ever had. They even have meal deals that include a Tarquins gin in a tin, crisps, and cake.
🐾 Dog friendly
4. St Mawes Beaches
You don’t need tropical shores when you’ve got Summers Beach. (And when the tide is out, another small beach by the harbour appears.) It’s small, sandy, and perfect for paddling, sunbathing, or skipping stones like a pro. The water’s clear and calm – ideal for swimming or launching your paddleboard. Or just lay back and enjoy the simple pleasure of doing absolutely nothing. For the more adventurous, you can explore the rock pools at low tide. Plus, it’s one of the free things to do in St Mawes!
🐾 Dogs can go on the beach year round. However, there is a seasonal ban between 10am and 6pm from 1 July to 31 August
Take a Picnic
Devon Hampers sends the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream, and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider, and BBQ hampers.
Devon Hampers Promo Code
Get 5% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. There is no minimum order amount. Use DEVON5 at the checkout.
5. Kayak or Paddleboard Around the Bay
The sheltered waters around St Mawes are made for messing about on the water. Hire a kayak or paddleboard and explore hidden coves and sea caves, and maybe spot a cheeky seal or two. Don’t forget your waterproof phone case – this is Instagram gold.
6. Walks Around St Mawes
There are some lovely walks around St Mawes, perfect for soaking up the stunning Cornish scenery. Stretch your legs and soak up some serious sea air with a coastal walk to St Just in Roseland. The walk is around 2 miles and fairly easy-going, with plenty of photo stops along the way. Don’t miss St Just Church – it’s tucked in a sub-tropical garden and looks like something out of a Cornish fairytale.
For coastal views, walk from St Mawes Castle along the headland, or catch the Place Ferry and hike to St Anthony Head, where dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and even the odd seal await. Here, you’ll also find The Place House St Mawes. Inland, the Percuil River walk offers peaceful countryside and birdlife.
🐾 Dog friendly
7. Visit Lamorran Gardens
Fancy a stroll through an exotic wonderland? Lamorran Gardens is a Mediterranean-style garden with palm trees, Italianate terraces, and views that’ll make your jaw drop. It’s open from April to September on select days and is worth visiting if you want a break from the beach.
🐾 Dogs on leads welcome
8. Places To Eat In St Mawes
St Mawes is an absolute dream for foodies. Whether you’re craving Cornish crab, a cheeky cream tea (jam first, you’re in Cornwall now), or Michelin-worthy fare, you’ll find something to tickle your tastebuds here.
The St Mawes restaurants include Idle Rocks, whose views are outrageously good, and the vibe is effortlessly chic. Perfect for a sundowner after a salty day by the sea. Or it’s all about the day’s catch at The Watch House! We had an incredible meal here – a shellfish platter with prawns, scallops, crab claws, mussels and scallops, and a lemon sole katsu curry! Book ahead, especially in summer — it’s popular for a reason.
Prefer a pint? The Rising Sun is a classic inn that exudes coastal charm. Its terrace offers lovely views. The solid pub fare, including pie and mash, burgers, and roast dinners. Whilst The Victory Inn is the oldest and only traditional pub in St Mawes, with low ceilings, wooden beams, and a roaring fire in winter, full of character.
Want to know more? Check out my guide to the best places to eat in St Mawes, which includes whether they welcome dogs.
Get 50% off Food
If you love food and drink, do you have a Tastecard? It’s a membership card that offers 25% off the food bill or 2-for-1 meals for the price of one at over six thousand participating restaurants across the UK. It’s a great way to save money and enjoy a variety of dining experiences. Get a 60-day free trial here:
9. Shops in St Mawes
You’ll find everything from quirky gift boutiques and art galleries showcasing local artists to well-stocked food stores selling Cornish goodies like fudge, pasties, and fresh seafood. Don’t miss the independent craft shops, where you can pick up handmade jewellery, pottery, and beachy homewares. The shops in St Mawes are a delightful part of the village experience.
10. Places To Visit Near St Mawes
A short drive away, Trelissick Garden offers glorious riverside walks and lush gardens. The estate features 30 acres of vibrant gardens and 375 acres of parkland and woodland walks, all boasting stunning views over the River Fal. The estate also houses the historic Trelissick House, an art gallery showcasing local Cornish artists, a second-hand bookshop, and the Crofters Café. A ferry service operates from Falmouth via St Mawes during the summer months, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic journey along the Fal River.
National Trust Membership
A National Trust Membership gives you unlimited access to hundreds of historic houses, beautiful gardens, and stunning nature reserves across the UK. It’s totally worth it if you love days out, discovering hidden gems, and getting free parking at most locations. I love our couples membership; it’s only £13.40 per month, and most locations are dog-friendly.
11. Things To Do Near St Mawes
Village hopping near St Mawes is a lovely way to explore Cornwall’s quieter charms, with each spot offering its own character and delights. Start with Portscatho, a laid-back fishing village with art galleries, coastal walks, and one of the best beachside delis in the county. Just up the road is Gerrans, where you can visit the 13th-century church and enjoy peaceful countryside views.
A short drive away, Portloe is picture-perfect with its tiny working harbour – a dream for photographers and an excellent spot for a peaceful wander. Veryan, known for its unique roundhouses, offers a touch of local folklore and beautiful walks through wooded valleys.
12. St Mawes to Truro
A day trip from St Mawes to Truro – the capital city of Cornwall – offers a delightful blend of cultural exploration, shopping, and culinary treats. Some of the things to do in Truro include visiting the iconic Truro Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Wander through the city’s charming streets, where you’ll find a mix of independent boutiques and high-street shops, perfect for a leisurely shopping experience.
Art enthusiasts can explore the Royal Cornwall Museum, which showcases Cornwall’s rich heritage and art collections. For a taste of local culture, check out the events at the Hall for Cornwall, a venue hosting various performances from theatre to live music. Or immerse yourself in the world of cider at Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm. Here, you can learn about traditional cider-making processes, sample a range of ciders, and even meet some friendly farm animals.
Book a Tour
Embarking on a tour with Viator promises an enriching and hassle-free experience that’s hard to beat. You’re not just booking a tour; it’s an expertly crafted itinerary curated by locals and seasoned travellers, ensuring you uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions. From walking tours to culinary adventures and everything in between, Viator offers an extensive range of options tailored to diverse interests and budgets.
13. St Mawes to Mevagissey
Travelling from St Mawes to Mevagissey offers a delightful journey through Cornwall’s scenic landscapes. Here, you’ll find a quintessential Cornish fishing village brimming with character. Stroll through its narrow, winding streets lined with independent shops, art galleries, and traditional pubs. The working harbour is perfect for watching fishing boats come and go. Don’t miss the Mevagissey Aquarium, housed in a former lifeboat house. Make sure you stop for lunch at The Lighthouse Café.
14. St Mawes to Newquay
Heading from St Mawes to Newquay is a brilliant way to mix up your Cornish adventure. The drive takes around 40 minutes, making it a great day trip. Once there, dive straight into the action at Fistral Beach, famous for its epic surf and laid-back vibe. Newquay Harbour is great for a wander and a bite of fresh seafood, while the Blue Reef Aquarium, with its underwater tunnel and tropical fish, is perfect for rainy days.
Families will love Newquay Zoo and Trenance Gardens, which include a boating lake, crazy golf, and a miniature railway. For something a bit different, ride the Lappa Valley Steam Railway through gorgeous countryside or explore the peaceful grounds of Trerice Manor, a beautiful National Trust property nearby. Discover all of the things to do in Newquay.
15. Stay in St Mawes
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Ship and Castle
We stayed at the Ship and Castle Hotel, which offers dog-friendly rooms with serious sea-view perks. We were upgraded to a balcony room overlooking the harbour — our dog absolutely loved people-watching and boat-spotting from his new favourite spot. The room was clean and modern, and he had space for his bed and bowls, plus essentials like a coffee pod machine and good WiFi. Parking’s easy too, with a nearby pay-and-display just a minute away (only £6 for 24 hours).
Holiday Cottages
Cornwall Hideaways have a massive selection of luxury holiday homes to make your next staycation perfect. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll be able to find properties with the things on your tick list, including dog-friendly, sea views, walking routes or even a log fire. There are barn conversions, cottages, lofts, and manor houses, which are perfect for self-catering holidays.
🐾 Dog friendly
What To Do In St Mawes
Is St Mawes nice? Yes! St Mawes might be small, but it packs a proper Cornish punch. With a perfect blend of chilled vibes, sea-salty adventure, and coastal charm. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to fall in love with one of Cornwall’s hidden gems.
Cornish Days Out
There are so many unusual things to do in St Mawes; it’s full of surprises. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or just exploring solo, this charming Cornish town has something for everyone. So, venture off the beaten path the next time you visit and enjoy these unique activities.
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