Top Things to Do in October 2024
1 October
October is a magical time to explore the vibrant heart of Cornwall. As the summer crowds subside and the landscapes change with autumnal colours, Falmouth, St. Mawes, Truro, and the Roseland Peninsula offer many experiences perfect for adventurers, families, foodies and culture lovers. Read on for the must-see events and experiences in Cornwall this October.
3rd - 6th October
The UK Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival in St Mawes
After seven successful years, the UK Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival will be held from the 3rd to the 6th of October around the historic fishing harbour of St Mawes, Cornwall.
Participants will fish from the shoreline, using their fishing skills and watercraft, using the many beaches and rocky areas where the sport is to be found. The fish is returned unhurt to the water with catch and release.
Find out more here
Getting there: St Mawes Ferry information here and King Harry Ferry information here
October
Live music at the Princess Pavilion
The Princess Pavilion is a vibrant cultural landmark in Falmouth, hosting diverse events and activities for residents and visitors alike. It provides a space for people to come together and enjoy the arts in a beautiful seaside setting. It has an eclectic mix of live music events every month, and this October, there are plenty of gigs to choose from, including:
4-5th Falmouth Reggae Festival
15th - Big Country - 'Return to Steeltown' + Mike Peters
16th - Jack Botts
25th - The Beat ft. Ranking Jnr
Find out more about everything that's going on here
From October 10th
Half-Term Fun and Lectures at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall
The National Maritime Museum Cornwall is a must-visit in Falmouth, offering a fascinating dive into Cornwall's maritime past. Whether you're interested in admiring boats, exciting exhibitions, or maritime history, the museum's interactive displays and historic boats will captivate all ages. Explore the lookout tower for panoramic views of Falmouth Harbour, which is especially beautiful in the crisp autumn light. This month, there is something for everyone. Learn about Mary Broad/Bryant - The Creation of a Cornish Legend on October 10th as part of the Autumn Lecture Series. Silhouettes & Shadows provides spooky half-term fun from October 26th - November 3rd. Halloween at the NMMC is perfect for children and their families - visit out of hours if you dare on October 31st.
Find out more here
October 19th
The Wizardry Ball at The Alverton
Expect an evening of magic, music and mystical surprises with cocktails and a four-course feast at The Wizardry Ball at The Alverton this month. The most highly anticipated event in the wizarding calendar, make your way for a four-course feast whipped up by the Alvetons professor of Cornish cuisine and kitchen sorcery – Nick Hodges. Throughout the evening, expect the unexpected – with entrancing performances from their magician, visits from feathery owl friends, enchanted cocktails, and music until late from their resident DJ.
Find out more here
October 24th
Fine Dining at The Idle Rocks, St. Mawes
Perched perfectly on the ricks in the heart of the charming village of St. Mawes, The Idle Rocks is the epitome of relaxation. Retreat to this boutique hotel's cosy interiors and enjoy fine dining from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The views over the harbour are unbeatable, and you can relax by the fire with a glass of Cornish wine, watching the sun set over the water. Whether you stay the night or drop by for lunch, The Idle Rocks promises a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle. This autumn, the hugely popular Idle Rocks Supper Club returns, celebrating each chef in the Idle Rocks kitchen team, whether a Senior Sous or an apprentice, as they create and present their dish to guests. Join them for a convivial evening in the delightful waterside restaurant, where you'll enjoy delicious food and gather with like-minded people.
Find out more here
October
Visit Falmouth Art Gallery
Falmouth Art Gallery is one of Cornwall's most delightful cultural gems. This free-to-enter Gallery houses an impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century artworks alongside contemporary pieces that capture the essence of Cornwall's artistic spirit. The Gallery showcases a vibrant and varied programme of exhibitions, collection displays, workshops, talks, and events that everyone can enjoy. The current exhibition, Falmouth and the Surrealists, features works by Lee Miller and women artists associated with Surrealism.
Find out more here
October
Take a Scenic Trip on Enterprise Boats to Trelissick Garden
This October, a trip on Enterprise Boat up the river to Trelissick Garden is a must. The scenery is stunning at this time of year, with the surrounding trees transforming into rich shades of red, orange, and gold. The boat ride is peaceful, giving you a unique perspective of Cornwall's picturesque estuaries. Once you arrive at Trelissick, explore the estate's enchanting gardens, which offer stunning river views and autumnal plant displays. Take advantage of the woodland walk for some feel-good fresh air and autumnal views, and treat yourself to a hot chocolate at the Crofters Cafe. The Trelissick Apple Weekend takes place on the 5th and 6th of October. Join them for an apple-themed weekend of garden activities, including displays, identification, and archery in the orchard. This October half term, take part in an autumnal trail around the garden at Trelissick and enjoy the fresh air, vibrant colours and stunning woodland.
Find out more - Enterprise Boats
Find out more - Events at Trelissick
October
St Michaels Hydrothermal Experience
Relax and unwind with a St Michaels Hydrothermal Experience this autumn. This is the perfect place to work away stress and tension, featuring the largest spa-hydrotherapy pool in the southwest, heated up to a comforting 35C. After a soak, stretch out on the poolside day beds and heated loungers, then cleanse your skin in the herbal Finnish sauna and outdoor barrel sauna with views out across Falmouth Bay. Bask in the thermal paradise of the rainforest steam room, then step into the world's only Cornish sea salt steam room and breathe in to relax your respiratory system. Finally, sink into restorative bliss in the outdoor hot tub with views that stretch across the spa gardens to the ocean beyond.
Find out more here
26th October - 3rd November
Halloween Half-Term at Pendennis
Situated on a headland with breathtaking views out to sea, Pendennis Castle is one of Henry VIII's finest coastal fortresses. Grab your broomsticks and get ready for a bewitchingly brilliant day out at Pendennis Castle. Gather round and prepare to be enthralled as you listen to stories spun by our spooky storytellers. Your little monsters will giggle and gasp at these kid-friendly tales – hear about ghostly encounters, eerie folklore and unexplained happenings, all against the backdrop of Falmouth’s creepy castle! When you’re ready to walk off the goosebumps, take part in our Halloween Quest around the grounds. Hunt for hidden clues, answer ghoulish questions and solve the puzzles to become a Halloween Hero!
Find out more and book your tickets here
October
Dine at Indidog in Falmouth
Indidog is everything you want from a bar & restaurant: beautiful interior, uninterrupted waterside views, local and thoughtful wines, spirits and draught ales and delicious food made with love from locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. This October, the Sunday Roasts are back, offering a roast as delicious as the scenery. It's a great spot to warm up after a bracing walk or get together with friends and family.
Find out more here
26th October - 3rd November
Explore Glendurgan Garden
Just a short drive from Falmouth, Glendurgan Garden is a magical place to visit in October. This National Trust garden is famous for its subtropical plants and beautifully landscaped gardens that weave down to the Helford River. In autumn, the garden bursts with colour as the exotic plants and trees put on a spectacular display. Wander through the famous laurel maze, take in the peaceful tranquillity of the gardens, and enjoy the natural beauty of this idyllic corner of Cornwall. This half-term, follow Glendurgan's autumn spotter sheet to discover fallen leaves from the garden's trees and contribute to the evolving autumn display at the willow arch. Unleash your creativity with autumn-inspired crafts in the Apple Shed, perfect for families to enjoy together. Take advantage of this chance to celebrate autumn's beauty in the heart of the garden before the site closes for winter.
Find out more here
25th - 27th October
Spooktoberfest at The Working Boat
For a quintessential Cornish pub experience, head to The Working Boat.
Join them for the spooky season as Oktoberfest comes to The Working Boat during the last weekend of the month. Enjoy a weekend packed with German traditions, eerie fun, and all things spooky at their Halloween-themed beer festival. Starting at 5pm on Friday, the harbourside hangout transforms into a traditional beer hall. On Saturday, enjoy the best costume competition. Whether you're a spooky beer maiden, a ghostly bratwurst, or simply strapping on your best zombie lederhosen, the most creative fancy dress will win an exclusive prize. Anybody in lederhosen will also receive their first stein of beer for half the price. Sunday sees a
German-themed spooky quiz from 7.30pm. Alongside the usual Working Boat beers will be a selection of German-style brews in traditional two-pint steins and a tasty German-inspired menu, too – think loaded bratwurst hot dogs and chicken schnitzel to keep you going throughout the weekend. The event is free to attend.
Find out more more and book your free tickets here