Harbourside dining in Falmouth

Falmouth has been home to many hotels of note over the years, but none have stood the test of time like The Greenbank Hotel. Dating back to 1640 and first advertised as a hotel in 1831, this historic building overlooking the Fal Estuary has hosted many illustrious guests including Florence Nightingale and The Wind in the Willows author Kenneth Grahame.

While The Greenbank Hotel is steeped in history, the atmosphere is casual and contemporary. At its Water’s Edge restaurant, head chef Bobby Southworth works alongside exec chef Nick Hodges to deliver creative dishes that showcase the finest Cornish ingredients. The restaurant is wrapped in glass to reveal stunning views over the water, so it’s only natural that Bobby and Nick build their menus around the local fishermen’s catch.

After dinner, head to the adjoining Water’s Edge bar to watch the boats bobbing as you indulge in an inventive cocktail.

For a change of scene, head below deck to the hotel’s pub, The Working Boat, to sink a local craft beer and tuck into Cornish-crab doorstop sandwiches or surf‑and‑turf burgers.

Experience a full gourmet getaway by booking one of the contemporary bedrooms. They make an excellent base from which to explore the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Pendennis Castle and the South West Coast Path, all just a short stroll away.

Trencherman’s tip: Upgrade to The Florence Suite to drink in the harbour views from a private balcony.