Having reputedly the third largest natural harbour in the world, and the deepest in Western Europe, Falmouth was developed as a port on the recommendation of Sir Walter Raleigh and has a fascinating maritime history.

From its role as Royal Mail Packet Station in the 17th century, to the cargo port and cruise ship destination it is today, Falmouth has been a bustling port for 400 years now. From 1688 mail came in and out of the country in Packet Ships solely from Falmouth, making the Cornish town second only to London as the information hub of Britain at the time. The captains of the ships would often land at Greenbank, Falmouth's oldest hotel, and now the site of the luxury 4 star Greenbank Hotel, a collection of beautifully restored buildings on the water's edge.

In 1850 the Falmouth Packet Service ceased as the advent of steam took over; steamships replaced the sailing packets, proving to be faster and more reliable vessels. But the nautical town was undaunted by these changing times and Falmouth Docks were built and opened in 1861. When the Cornish Railway reached Falmouth two years later, the site of the station was first intended to be the old Packet departure point of Greenbank, but was instead built closer to the Docks to allow quick and easy transference of goods from the port to the railway. Also, tourists could visit the town more easily by rail, and a new age of prosperity for Falmouth was born.

Internationally known for its nautical heritage and deep sailing waters, today  Falmouth is the site of significant sailing events such as the Pendennis Cup (bi-annually in May) when superyachts race across Falmouth Bay, and the stunning spectacle of the Tall Ships Regatta. In August this year over 40 vessels from around the world will be welcomed for the regatta: three days of festivities before an impressive Parade of Sail between the twin Tudor castles of Pendennis and St Mawes lead the ships to the start line in Falmouth and the beginning of the race to the Isle of Wight and onwards to Royal Greenwich.

Whether visiting Falmouth for the excitement of the main marine events, or for a lazy weekend exploring the Fal River network by ferry, the cobbled streets and historic castles, the Greenbank Hotel is in the midst of it all. Tranquil and luxurious, with exceptional views across the harbour, it has always been a popular place to stay and has attracted some prestigious guests including Florence Nightingale in 1907 and also Kenneth Grahame in the same year, the surroundings inspiring him to begin writing the stories which later became Wind in the Willows.

The time of packet ships and weary mariners may be over, but the Greenbank continues to welcome seafarers and land lovers alike. Tourist, trader, seadog, sailor, all are welcome to sink into the comfort of the beds, surrender to the stunning sea views and sail forth for fabulous food and service. It's plain sailing really.

ENDS

Notes to editors

About The Greenbank Hotel

The four star Greenbank Hotel enjoys an enviable position overlooking Falmouth Harbour and as well as having stunning views is renowned for its high quality service, contemporary yet traditional style and recently awarded double rosette Harbourside Restaurant. As one of the south west's leading venues for civil ceremonies and wedding receptions, the Greenbank Hotel has an excellent reputation for exceeding expectations and prides itself on turning dreams into reality.

www.greenbank-hotel.co.uk

Join The Greenbank

Facebook www.facebook.com/greenbankhotel

Twitter @Greenbankhotel

Further information

For further information or to arrange interviews please contact Jess Collins at Type Communications jess@type-communications.co.uk or 01326 567236