Just like the harbour town’s characterful array of pubs, you can expect everything from swanky sea view bars that will keep your glass full until last orders, to secret underground drinking dens and dog-friendly watering holes. Whatever your taste, style or budget, our list of Falmouth’s best cocktail bars will have you raising your glass and toasting to good times for many Cornwall evenings to come.
Star & Garter
Nestled among the historic buildings of The Old High Street, and moments from our Packet Quays apartments sits the handsome Star & Garter. The award-winning Victorian gastropub has views that stretch over Falmouth harbour and a seasonal drinks list that will make an astounding impression. Perch with your pooch in their dog-friendly bar and choose from magical and memorable delights such as sorbet bellinis, hazelnut white russians and chocolate orange espresso martinis. For guests with their own preferred recipes, they will also happily accommodate requests for ‘off menu’ cocktails, depending on the availability of ingredients.
Indidog
A dog-friendly and cocktail-lover’s paradise, Indidog sits glittering against Falmouth harbour and boasts a drinks menu for all tastes. Glasses of salted caramel espresso martinis, blood orange spritz and spiced mojitos populate their ‘Liberations’ list. Top it off with a bite to eat from their popular dinner menu and you’ve discovered the perfect evening out in Falmouth. For those who want to continue the night and take drinks back to their Cornish cottages, be sure to check their artisan gift shop where you may find a selection of pre-mixed cocktails.
Dolly’s Tearoom
For those in search of something a little different at cocktail hour, venture up the stairs beyond the green door next to Falmouth Booksellers. Inside you’ll find a large and open space, decorated with old school desks and chairs, wooden flooring, patterned wallpaper and chalk-illustrated blackboards. During the day, visitors can dine on traditional cream teas and sandwiches, afternoon teas and homemade cakes. In the evening, tucked away Dolly’s transforms into a candlelit bar, serving delicious tapas, and wine by the glass, jug and bottle, plus a huge collection of gins. Cocktails are eccentrically served in teapots and poured into vintage cups, with ice cubes in sugar bowls.
Solskinn
Brand new to Falmouth town and situated above The Polytechnic Society, Solskinn is a culture hub for coffee connoisseurs, fine cocktails, lovers of people and the energy of the natural environment. Meaning sunshine in old Norse, Solkinn cocktail haus’ interior shines with Scandinavian decor. Populated by plants, contemporary Cornish-themed artwork and Tom Raffield lighting, and overlooking Falmouth’s bustling high street, it’s the perfect place from which to sip a cocktail or three. Here you can expect classics such as cosmopolitans, margaritas and negronis, and the desire to come back for more.
Small Ships
Tipple hunters will find Small Ships hidden down a flight of stairs on Quay Street. Below deck, you’ll find an intimate space illuminated by candlelight and decorated with nautical details and comfortable sofas. For the espresso-martini obsessed, we highly recommend ordering here as, in our opinion, it has to be one of the very best in town, if not the county. If you’re seeking something unique, their Mean Lemonade with kaffir vodka, ginger & IPA syrup and Queen’s Park Swizzle is certain to delight and leave a lasting impression.