5 Things to Do in St Mawes

Nestled on Cornwall's beautiful Roseland Peninsula, St Mawes is one of the county's most picturesque coastal villages. With stunning sea views, historic landmarks, colourful gardens and fantastic local food, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing day out or a longer holiday.

Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to one of Cornwall's favourite seaside villages, here are five must-do experiences in St Mawes.

1. Explore the Historic St Mawes Castle

Standing proudly at the water's edge, St Mawes Castle is one of the best-preserved coastal fortresses built by Henry VIII. Dating back to the 1540s, the castle was constructed to defend Cornwall from invasion and today offers visitors spectacular panoramic views across the Fal Estuary.

Climb to the battlements, discover centuries of history and enjoy one of the most scenic castle locations in the UK. Don't forget your camera—the views towards Falmouth and the surrounding coastline are breathtaking.

2. Visit Lamorran House Gardens

A hidden gem just a short walk from the village centre, Lamorran House Gardens feel like stepping into another world. Thanks to Cornwall's mild climate, these beautiful subtropical gardens are home to exotic plants, winding pathways, tranquil ponds and peaceful seating areas.

It's the perfect place to escape the crowds, enjoy a leisurely stroll and appreciate the incredible variety of plants that thrive in this unique corner of Cornwall.

3. Take the St Mawes Ferry Across the Fal Estuary

One of the highlights of any visit is hopping aboard the St Mawes Ferry for the short crossing to Falmouth. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering fantastic views of Pendennis Castle, St Mawes Castle and the bustling harbour.

Whether you're heading over for shopping, sightseeing or simply enjoying the boat trip, the ferry is a wonderful way to experience Cornwall from the water.

4. Relax on St Mawes' Beautiful Beaches

St Mawes is surrounded by several lovely beaches, each with its own character. Tavern Beach, located right in the village, is ideal for families thanks to its calm waters and easy access to cafés and shops.

A little further along the coast you'll find Summers Beach and Cellars Beach, both perfect for swimming, paddleboarding or simply relaxing with a good book while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

If you're feeling adventurous, the nearby South West Coast Path offers spectacular walks with unforgettable sea views.

5. Treat Yourself at St Mawes Bakery

No visit to St Mawes is complete without stopping at St Mawes Bakery.

For over four generations, our family has been baking fresh bread, traditional Cornish pasties, cakes and sweet treats using time-honoured recipes and quality ingredients. Whether you're looking for breakfast before exploring the village, lunch to enjoy on the beach or a well-earned coffee and cake after a coastal walk, we've got something freshly baked waiting for you.

Our award-winning Cornish pasties are a favourite with both locals and visitors, while our artisan breads, homemade sausage rolls, freshly baked pastries and delicious cakes make the perfect picnic for a day by the sea.

Planning a walk to the castle? Catching the ferry? Heading to the beach? We're conveniently located in the heart of St Mawes, making us the ideal first—or last—stop during your visit.

Plan Your Perfect Day in St Mawes

A great day in St Mawes might look something like this:

Start with freshly brewed coffee and breakfast at St Mawes Bakery.
Explore the fascinating history of St Mawes Castle.
Wander through the peaceful Lamorran House Gardens.
Enjoy lunch on the beach with freshly baked Cornish pasties.
Finish the afternoon with a scenic ferry ride across the Fal Estuary.

Whether you're here for a few hours or a week-long holiday, St Mawes offers the perfect combination of history, natural beauty and fantastic local food.

We look forward to welcoming you to St Mawes Bakery and helping make your visit to Cornwall even more memorable.