Experience maritime Cornwall this July

From regattas to sea shanty celebrations

Dotted with quaint fishing villages and charming harbour towns, Cornwall has made quite the name for itself in the maritime scene. Home to Falmouth’s very own National Maritime Museum, as well as more unique Cornish traditions like sea shanty singing, the coastal county has a bucketful of seaside events lined up for you to enjoy this July. Here's a round-up of some of the best:

Sea Salts and Sail Festival, July 13th - 15th 2018

Held in the Cornish fishing village of Mousehole, Sea Salts and Sail is a bi-annual festival that’s been celebrating Cornwall’s maritime heritage since 1966. While the harbour is the beating heart of the event, showcasing a full programme of rowing and sailing races over three days, there’s fun to be had elsewhere too, with traditional craft stalls, local food and drink, live music and games and activities that the children will love.

Mousehole is brought to life when colourful flags line the harbour and the sound of Cornish sea shanties fill the air. Special guest and skilled shipwright Jonny Nance has been confirmed as the festival opener and the Skully Race taking place on Saturday 14th July is not to be missed. The event also promises live cooking demonstrations, traditional male voice choirs and Stories on the Shore.

Charlestown Regatta Week, July 21st - 27th 2018

Charlestown Regatta Week is another event promising to make waves this summer. Held from 21st - 27th July, the annual celebration is Cornish as can be. From the flora dance procession to pasty demonstrations and raft races, there’s plenty going on across the seven days – and in a simply charming location.

Charlestown is one of Cornwall’s prettiest villages. A popular filming spot for the television drama Poldark, its panoramic sea views and sprinkling of local shops and lunch spots make it a favourite amongst locals. And if you’re visiting the area, Regatta Week is the perfect time to get involved for an authentic snapshot of Cornish life.

Find a spot on the Georgian harbour wall and watch the ships come sailing in, or get the children involved with sport and activities out on the water. If you’re looking for refreshments between festivities, Charlie’s Coffee House is the perfect pit stop for traditional Cornish cream tea. There are also plenty of nearby beaches within walking distance of Charlestown, including Porthpean and Pentewan – ideal for exploring the inlets and coves of the South West Coast Path.

Seaside Walk Week, July 29th 2018

On Sunday 29th July, enjoy a beautiful coastal walk and help raise money for charity at the same time. To celebrate the finale of The Holiday Association’s Seaside Walk Week, National Trust rangers are leading a guided walk around Trevose Head. This year’s Seaside Walk Week is all about encouraging the public to keep exploring the Great British coastline – and what better way to do it than with a lovely scenic stroll?

With the chance to discover some of Cornwall’s picturesque sandy beaches like Constantine Bay, the 90 minute walk showcases stunning sea views. National Trust rangers will also be on hand to provide local knowledge and Cornish context with every step. Learn about the history, wildlife and habitats of Trevose Head and the surrounding area, as you admire the view from the headland.

The event begins at 11am but walkers are encouraged to come along early – the perfect opportunity to enjoy some local light refreshments with a beautiful sea view. Click here to register. And a reminder for National Trust members – don’t forget that parking pass!

Want to make a week of it? Here are some of our luxury beach houses nearby:

The Mouse House in Mousehole: just footsteps away from Sea Salts and Sail, this quaint four bedroom property welcomes in endless sea views, with rare availability in July.

Beachcombers in Gorran Haven: a cosy Cornish cottage and the perfect base for families enjoying Regatta Week in nearby Charlestown.