While Cornwall's beaches and seaside towns can become busy during the summer, the Helford offers something different. Quiet creeks, ancient woodland, sheltered waters and waterside pubs make it one of the most peaceful corners of the county. It's the sort of place where the itinerary doesn't need to be packed. In fact, the less you rush, the more you'll enjoy it.



If you're looking for a memorable day away from the crowds, here's how we'd spend a summer's day on the Helford River.

Start with a Morning Walk

The best way to appreciate the Helford is on foot.

There are plenty of beautiful walks to choose from, but one of our favourites starts at Helford Passage before following the coast through ancient woodland towards Durgan. Along the way you'll pass secluded coves, twisting oak trees and ever-changing views across the river, with sailing boats gently moored in the creeks below.



It's an easy walk to take at your own pace, with plenty of places to stop for a photo or simply sit and enjoy the view. Setting off in the morning also means you'll experience the river at its quietest, before the paddleboards and boats begin to appear.

Stop for Lunch at The Ferryboat Inn

After a morning exploring, there's nowhere better to stop than The Ferryboat Inn.

Sitting right on the water's edge at Helford Passage, it's one of Cornwall's most iconic waterside pubs. On a warm day, grab a table outside and enjoy lunch while watching the ferry make its short crossing between Helford Passage and Helford Village.



Whether you fancy fresh seafood or a hearty pub lunch, it's the sort of place where it's easy to lose an hour or two. If you're visiting Cornwall, we'd also recommend trying a cold Rattler while you're there. It somehow tastes even better overlooking the river.

Explore the River by Paddle board or Kayak

Once you've seen the Helford from the shore, it's time to get out on the water.

The sheltered conditions make it one of the best places in Cornwall for paddleboarding and kayaking, particularly during calm summer weather. As you paddle away from the busier stretches of the river, you'll discover peaceful creeks, hidden inlets and quiet corners that can only really be appreciated from the water.



It's a completely different perspective and one of our favourite ways to experience the Helford.

Cool Off with an Evening Swim

As the afternoon drifts into evening and many visitors begin heading home, the Helford takes on an even more peaceful feel.



On a warm summer's evening, there's nothing quite like a refreshing swim in the calm waters before settling down to watch the sun begin to drop. Compared with Cornwall's more exposed beaches, the sheltered river often feels quieter and more relaxed, making it a lovely place to end the day.

As always, choose a safe place to swim, be aware of tides and boat traffic, and never swim alone.

Round Off the Day with a Beach Barbecue

Few things feel more Cornish than ending the day with a barbecue by the water.

Find a quiet spot, bring a picnic or portable barbecue (where permitted of course), and enjoy dinner as the sun begins to set over the river. With boats gently bobbing on the water and the last paddleboarders making their way home, it's the perfect way to soak up everything that makes the Helford so special.

If you're visiting during the summer holidays, this is the kind of evening that stays with you long after you've gone home.

A Different Side of Cornwall

One of the things we love most about the Helford River is that it doesn't ask you to do very much at all.

There's no pressure to tick off attractions or rush between destinations. Instead, it's a place to walk, swim, paddle, eat well and enjoy the slower pace that Cornwall does so well.



If you're staying in one of our properties in Falmouth, it's the perfect way to spend a summer's day. Sometimes the best memories come from the simplest plans.