Located on the west bank of the Fowey Estuary in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the pretty town of Fowey is centred around its bustling harbour where, in the summer months its sheltered waters become home to a plethora of boats of all shapes and sizes.
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A local’s guide to Fowey holidays…
Things to do in Fowey
Quaint, atmospheric and picture-perfect. If you like your Cornwall holidays set against a backdrop of dreamy waterside scenery and beautifully preserved historic buildings, the harbour town of Fowey is where you’ll want to be. A picturesque harbour with stunning estuary views as well as a traditional Cornish town atmosphere make Fowey holidays the quintessential seaside getaway in south Cornwall.
Located on the west bank of the Fowey Estuary in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the town’s harbour is a bustling hive of activity during the summer months where its sheltered waters become home to a plethora of boats of all shapes and sizes.
Visitors can enjoy a meander through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, soaking up the atmosphere of authentic village life with a variety of boutique-style shops and galleries to peruse as well as a selection of restaurants and eateries to choose from.
The town has an interesting maritime history as well as an illustrious literary connection with the like of Daphne du Maurier, Rosamunde Pilcher and many more including the successful Poldark series, and there are frequent ferries to Polruan, a fascinating village with sweeping views from the top of Polruan Hill.
Fowey Attractions
A holiday spot sought out for its stunning estuary and ‘stop in your tracks’ scenery, this historic maritime port is also synonymous with author and playwrite Daphne du Maurier, possibly its most famous resident.
Du Maurier first visited Fowey as a child in the 1920s, and her love for the town and its surrounding landscapes persisted throughout her life. She later moved to Menabilly, a historic estate near Fowey, which served as the inspiration for the fictional Manderley in her famous novel “Rebecca.” Du Maurier’s legacy is still evident throughout the town with the Rook With A Book statue on the quay that nods to her short story ‘The Birds’.
The Estuary
Fowey’s natural harbor and estuary are central to its character and charm. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the waterfront, kayak, sail, or take a boat trip to explore the estuary. Across the River Fowey lies the village of Polruan which, like Fowey, has a maritime history and features narrow streets, historic buildings, and a picturesque harbour. A passenger ferry operates between both towns making it easy to hop between the two, providing a scenic and convenient way to make the most of the area.
If you’d like to take to the water during your stay, Fowey River Hire is a friendly family run business set in the heart of Fowey who offer a large selection of kayaks, SUP’s and self drive boats for hire. They also offer guided kayak tours as well as tours of the estuary in their safety boat.
St Catherine’s Castle
This 16th Century castle is a small artillery fortress with a distinctive circular design. Situated on the eastern side of the mouth of the River Fowey, overlooking Readymoney Cove, it’s position on the South West Coast Path offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, making it not only historically significant but also a picturesque spot for visitors.
The Eden Project
Roughly a 15 minute drive from Fowey, this world class attraction with the distinctive architecture of its two biomes, is a fantastic day out for all the family. Immerse yourself in the humid climate and lush vegetation of the Rainforest Biome (there’s even a waterfall) and the dry heat and wonderful plants of the Mediterranean Biome. There are also extensive gardens to explore as well as places to eat and picnic.
Fowey Aquarium
Right behind the quay lies Fowey’s small, historic aquarium which was first first established in 1952. It still retains many of the original tanks, all of which house a host of fascinating marine creatures with a fresh supply of seawater pumped into the tanks every day at high tide. Younger members of the family will love the interactiveness of the touch pool, where they may touch creatures such as starfish and crabs under expert supervision.
Beaches in Fowey
For most of us, holidays on the coast of Cornwall are synonymous with the beach, whether you’re a water sports fanatic or simply enjoy the feeling of sand between your toes. Thankfully, Fowey and its surrounding coastline is peppered with beautiful sandy stretches and crystal blue water so you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Readymoney Cove
With golden sand and clear blue water, this extraordinarily pretty cove can be found just a short walk from the center of Fowey and is easily reached by foot via one of several scenic paths down to the water. High cliffs and lush vegetation add to the setting which is really quite tranquil and atmospheric – a wonderful place for relaxation and family time.
Polkerris Beach
Located a short drive from Fowey, Polkerris is one of Cornwall’s best family beaches and a must-visit destination on your Fowey holiday. With clean sand and clear waters, it’s a fantastic place for water sports, sunbathing and sandcastle-building. There are also two good beachside restaurants as well as an ice cream café for that all-important holiday cornet.
Lantic Bay
Just east of Fowey lies Lantic Bay, a snow-white crescent made up of sand and shingle which lies hidden on a stunning section of the coastline. It’s beautiful scenery, secluded atmosphere and turquoise blue waters make it perfect for a day of lazing, picnicking and paddling – well worth the steep walk back up.
Par Sands
Just a short drive west of Fowey, Par Sands is a large, sandy beach backed by sand dunes and a nature reserve. It’s a family-friendly beach with ample space for activities.
FAQ’s about Fowey
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Where is Fowey?
Fowey lies on Cornwall’s south coast and is situated on the banks of the River Fowey, about 38 miles from Plymouth and about 6 miles from the Eden Project near St Austell.
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Can you swim in the Fowey river?
Yes! If you’d like to take a dip in the River Fowey, the best place for it at Readymoney Cove beach. Usually rated as ‘excellent’ the water quality is tested regularly and is usually fabulous for swimming – however this can change after heavy rain so be sure to check the Environment Agency website for Readymoney Cove before hitting the water.
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Are dogs allowed on Fowey beach?
Dogs are allowed on Readymoney Cove beach all year round but only before 10:00am and after 6:00pm. The Beach Shop at the cove offers free dog treats and sells poo bags if you’ve run out or have forgotten to bring some along – of course keeping the beach clean and mess-free goes without say.
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How do I get to Fowey?
Fowey is about an hour and 10 minutes’ drive from Plymouth in Devon. The drive from central London takes around 4-5 hours, while Bristol and Exeter are closer, at 2 to 3 hours and 1 to 1.5 hours respectively. If you’re considering travelling by train, make your way to Plymouth or Exeter, then transfer to a local bus service to Fowey.
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