Loyal and ever present, my boys and I venture into Falmouth town several times a week to run errands, grab a coffee (me not them) and do some shopping.

Mostly we go the ‘long way round’ and head to Gyllyngvase Beach for a scamper on the beach (them not me – although it has been known!) and we meander our way across the rocks at low tide to Castle Beach. Marvin likes to chase the birds, although at only five months old his lack of sure foot means he some times ends up submerged in a rock pool! Mingo, the Spanish street dog rescue, now aged 6, stays close and together we navigate the textures and variances of the rock below us. What is it that is so satisfying and life affirming about clambering the rocks on low tide? Is it that the ebb and flow of the tide uncovers delights each time it does its thing, or that there’s only a certain window in each 24 hours where access is possible and the knowledge that in just a few hours, all will be at one with the sea again.  Whatever it is we are there, breathing in the essence of the sea and the life force energy.

From Castle Beach we head back along the road a little, passing Port Pendennis Harbour village and the Events Square at Discovery Quay, also the home of the National Maritime Museum Cornwall. First stop has to be Espressini for what is undoubtedly the best ‘Flat White’ Falmouth has to offer. (For convenience there is an Espressini at either end of town). I perch on a high stool in the window, with the former, iconic Harbour Commissioners building opposite. Now a pizza/pie/cider restaurant, The Stable; here you and your four legged can delight in some carbs (or a salad if you must) on the ground floor and adjacent to the harbour and Customs House Quay. 

Nearly every trip to Falmouth includes grabbing some provisions from the Natural Store. Organic fruit and vegetables, delicious yoghurts, vegetarian delights and the best chocolate selection in town means I often come out with more than I intended. Mingo and Marvin reside on the front step outside tethered to the dog hook. As I tie them up I pray a postman won’t pass!

Lunch plays out at Good Vibes; Daniel Rossiter and his partner Jade make a brilliant duo. Daniel creates nutritious culinary delights and is always pushing the boundaries with the vegan and gluten free options. Mingo and Marv munch on a homemade doggy biscuit under the table, on high alert for any other scraps that might follow.

As we walk, we meet and greet many, such is the world of dog lovers and friendly Falmouth folk.