Princess Pavilion

The Princess Pavilion is a much loved Falmouth landmark, known for hosting a diverse array of cultural events and activities for residents and visitors alike.

A Dynamic Venue for the Arts

At the heart of the Pavilion is a versatile theatre that hosts an exciting lineup of performances, including theatre productions, comedy shows, local dance recitals, and live music gigs.

With a live music and theatre program considered one of the best in the South West, the Pavilion regularly features top talent, from comedy legends like Jack Dee and Joe Wilkinson to renowned bands such as The Libertines, The Orb, and Grandmaster Flash.

History

Built in 1910 by Falmouth Town Council and officially opened by Princess Alexandra of Teck in 1911, the Princess Pavilion was originally envisioned as a concert hall and entertainment venue.

Over the decades, it has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, with several renovations ensuring it remains a vibrant and relevant space.

Today, the Pavilion continues to thrive as a cherished venue for both entertainment and community events.

A Community Hub

The Princess Pavilion isn’t just a first-class arts venue; it’s a vital part of the community, offering much more than performances. The Pavilion is a popular choice for weddings, providing a stunning setting for couples to celebrate their special day amidst the beautiful Gyllyngdune Gardens. The venue also plays host to a variety of community events, including the annual Falmouth Spring Flower Show, showcasing beautiful floral displays, and the Summer Sounds programme, featuring brass band and choral performances on the Bandstand.

In addition, the Princess Pavilion’s Garden Room Café serves as a warm and inviting space for locals and visitors alike. Not just a place for meetings, exhibitions, and weddings, the café is a welcoming hub for knitting circles, support groups, and art enthusiasts. Nestled beside the scenic Gyllyngdune Gardens, complete with its charming Edwardian bandstand and verandah, the café offers a delightful setting for enjoying a great cup of coffee or savoring a menu of locally sourced light bites and lunches.

Gyllyngdune Gardens

Situated adjacent to the Princess Pavilion complex is Gyllyngdune Gardens. Created in 1838 by Rev. Coope and his family, the gardens were originally carved out of a quarry that supplied stone for the Coope family estate. Following Victorian trends, the gardens boast many quirky features, including a monolithic arch perched on a rise, a quarry tunnel leading from the seafront, shell seats, and a shell-encrusted grotto, believed to have been decorated by Rev. Coope’s daughters.

Over time, ownership of the gardens changed hands until Falmouth Town Council purchased them in 1903 to preserve the popular attraction and they were officially opened in 1907. Adjacent to the Pavilion, the upper Gyllyngdune Gardens feature a verandah, the original Edwardian bandstand, and a greenhouse, hosting garden fetes and band concerts.

Overlooking Falmouth Bay, these enchanting gardens offer a serene retreat, perfect for exploration and relaxation. The beautifully maintained gardens are especially lovely during the spring and summer seasons. Children can enjoy the natural play area, discovering Morgawr, the mythical sea dragon, and following trails to uncover hidden sea creatures. A short stroll through the rose garden, past the secret shell grotto and monolithic arch, leads to the seafront with lovely views of Pendennis Castle and Gyllyngvase Beach.

Planning your Visit

Princess Pavilion
41 Melvill Road
Falmouth
TR11 4AR

For more information including how to get to the Princess Pavilion, accessibility information, café opening times and the latest gig news, events and community happenings please visit www.princesspavilion.co.uk or call 01326 211 222

Reviving a Falmouth Treasure

Falmouth Town Council took over the Princess Pavilion in May 2021 after its future as a community space was threatened, following the collapse of Cornwall Council’s leisure provider in 2020. Since then, at the request of the people of Falmouth, we’ve focused on reviving and preserving this beloved venue for the community and the arts.

In March 2024, we secured £190,000 in grants from the Community Ownership Fund to reduce the Pavilion’s energy costs. This funding will go towards purchasing solar panels and insulation.

The Princess Pavilion’s management reports into Falmouth Town Council’s Cultural Services and Leisure Committee.