Falmouth, the deep water harbour in Cornwall that’s as famous for its seafood as its naval military history, now seems interesting on a number of levels. The naval dockyards are still operating and there’s now also a flourishing merchant marine and leisure port. The deep water port, reputedly the third deepest in the world, means that cruise ships visit Falmouth. There's a famous picture of the Cunard liner QE2 moored in Falmouth Bay. The mild climate (almost frost-free) allows semi-tropical gardens and attracts a strong alternative and a serious arts communities as well as the folk enjoying their retirement. The independent coffee shop and bar scene offers many possibilities. And a fine selection of beaches with water warmed by the Gulf Stream, currently 15.1ºC sea temperature at the beach, not that I tested that myself!