Fowey, South Coast

Fowey is a picturesque harbour town on Cornwall's south coast, known for its narrow winding streets, colourful waterfront and beautiful setting beside the River Fowey. With sailing boats filling the estuary, independent shops and galleries tucked into historic buildings, and a lively selection of cafés and restaurants, Fowey is one of the county's most attractive coastal destinations.

The town has a long maritime history, having developed as an important trading port, and its working harbour remains central to local life. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, watch boats navigating the estuary or take a passenger ferry across to the neighbouring village of Polruan, where lovely views look back towards Fowey and the surrounding hillsides.

Fowey is also closely associated with the author Daphne du Maurier, who lived in the area and drew inspiration from Cornwall's coastline and countryside. The town celebrates its literary connections through the annual Fowey Festival of Arts and Literature.

For those who enjoy walking, the South West Coast Path offers spectacular scenery around the mouth of the estuary, including the beautiful route towards St Catherine's Castle and Readymoney Cove, a sheltered sandy beach within walking distance of the town centre. Boat trips provide another way to explore the river and surrounding coastline.

Nearby places to visit include the historic harbour at Charlestown, the fishing village of Mevagissey and the Eden Project, making Fowey an excellent destination for exploring this part of Cornwall.

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Photo: Tony Atkin / Fowey Harbour from Polruan / CC BY-SA 2.0 (cropped)