Fowey, Cornwall travel guide and Fowey information

Visit Fowey

Fowey is a small town situated to the east of Saint Austell, in southern Cornwall on the west bank of the mouth of the Fowey River. Lostwithiel is to the north, at the other end of the Fowey estuary.

The town is very attractive and a popular holiday destination, and centred around the natural harbour created by the River Fowey - a bustling hive of activity with both fishing and pleasure boats. It is lovely to walk along the quayside enjoying the views of the harbour and admiring the buildings that line the port. There are also a couple of pubs here where you might be tempted to stop a while...

There is plenty to enjoy as you explore the rest of the town as well, both the area immediately around the harbour and as you wander up the narrow streets that run up the hill behind. Dominated by the 14th century Church of Saint Finbarr and its buttressed tower, there are lots of simple cottages painted in delicate pastel colours, and a large number of shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants etc. and a good number of pubs.

The town has also inspired many artists and writers, most notably perhaps Daphne du Maurier who lived here for many years and was inspired by the town and the region - there is a Daphne du Maurier Festival held in Fowey each May to commemorate the fact.

Places to visit near Fowey

There is a great deal to see and enjoy in the region around Fowey, with coastal walks and beaches being among the most popular. It is also recommended to take a walk inland, for a change of scenery and to admire the lovely countryside along the estaury - visit Fowey tourist Office for details of walks of all standards in the region.

Head towards the southern end of the esplanade to visit the beach at Ready Money Cove and to explore the ruins of the 16th century Saint Catherine's Castle, at the entrance to the river.

You can take a passenger ferry across the Fowey estuary to visit the village of Polruan on the east bank, also a pleasant place to explore and a chance to see the port from a different perspective.

You can find more local travel ideas in the Cornwall guide and the Cornwall guide.