The King Harry Ferry is the shortcut to the Roseland Peninsula, and a pleasure in its own right. This chain ferry carries cars across the River Fal between Feock and Philleigh, saving a long drive around the head of the river and giving you a few minutes on the water. This guide explains how it works, what to know before you go and how it fits into a stay near Truro.
What the King Harry Ferry is
It is one of the few chain ferries in England, running across a deep, wooded stretch of the Fal. The Feock side, close to Truro and Falmouth, sits beside Trelissick, the National Trust garden and estate. The Philleigh side opens onto the Roseland, with St Mawes, Portscatho and the beaches at Carne and Pendower beyond.
Times, prices and what to check
The ferry runs every 20 minutes from each side, seven days a week, with sailings subject to tide, weather and circumstances. First and last sailings differ by day, and Sundays and public holidays start later. We do not copy times or prices here because they change, so always check the official King Harry Ferry timetable before you travel.
There is no booking system, so you turn up, join the queue and pay on the day. Allow extra time in the school holidays and on sunny summer days, when queues can build. There are weight and height limits for vehicles, so large campervans and coaches should check the official page first.
Why use the ferry from Tresillian Lodge
From the lodge, the ferry is the quickest way to reach the Roseland. It combines naturally with St Mawes, the Carne and Pendower beaches, the Roseland Peninsula guide and the gardens at Trelissick and Caerhays. Plan the return crossing before you leave, particularly if you are staying out for dinner.
Trelissick and the Feock side
Trelissick is a National Trust garden and estate above the River Fal at Feock, about 15 minutes from the lodge. Its gardens, parkland and woodland walks sit right beside the ferry, so a morning at Trelissick followed by a crossing to the Roseland makes an easy day. Check opening times and tickets with the National Trust before you go.
Alternatives if the ferry is not running
If the ferry is suspended, the road route around the head of the river adds a good deal of time, so allow for it. A short delay is the reason to check the operator’s notices on the day. Passenger ferries also link Falmouth, Truro and St Mawes, which gives a scenic way to reach the Roseland without taking the car.
Stay 10 minutes from Truro
Tresillian Lodge is a private woodland lodge near Truro for up to six guests, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a private hot tub and sauna, both included at no extra charge (tell the host when you book). Check-in is from 5pm and check-out is by 10am. A £125 cleaning fee applies to every booking, and a £1,000 deposit is pre-authorised at booking and released within 4 days after departure. Pets are not permitted. Minimum stays are flexible, so ask if your dates do not show as available.
Check availability, see rates and booking terms, or read about the hot tub and sauna.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the King Harry Ferry go?
It crosses the River Fal between Feock, on the Truro and Falmouth side, and Philleigh on the Roseland Peninsula. It is a chain ferry that carries cars, bicycles and foot passengers.
How often does the King Harry Ferry run?
The operator describes a service every 20 minutes from each side, seven days a week, subject to tide, weather and circumstances. Always check the official timetable for first and last sailings, especially on Sundays and public holidays.
How long is the King Harry Ferry crossing?
The crossing itself takes only a few minutes, so the real time saving comes from avoiding the long drive around the head of the river.
Is the King Harry Ferry worth using from Tresillian Lodge?
Usually yes. It is the quickest way from the Truro side to the Roseland, including St Mawes, Portscatho and Carne beach, and the crossing is part of the day out. Check the timetable if you plan a late return.
Do I need to book the King Harry Ferry?
No. It is a turn-up-and-go service, so you join the queue and pay on the day. Check the official page for current payment methods and prices.
