Places To Visit: Fowey
A Day in Fowey: A Perfect Escape on Cornwall’s Coast
If you are looking at visiting a popular Cornish town, Fowey could be the one. Located on the South Coast of Cornwall, this busy riverside town —is the sort of place where you can slow down and spend the day wandering through winding streets and enjoying a slower pace of life. If you’re planning a day trip to Fowey, here’s how to make the most of it.
1. Take a Walk Along the River
To start your day in Fowey, take a walk along the river. The town is located on the coast, so the views from the riverbanks are great, and there are plenty of little spots where you can sit and do some people watching.
Take your time wandering along the water’s edge, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could take one of the hire boats and do a quick river tour. It’s a great way to get a different perspective of Fowey and its surroundings. Some boats even cross the river over to Polruan, the quieter village on the other side, so you can easily make a round trip.
2. Stroll Through the Town
The town centre full of independent shops, cafes, and art galleries, so it’s the perfect place for a wander. The town’s maritime history is everywhere, from the little boats in the harbour to the old pubs and buildings that have stood for generations.
Make sure to pop into The Fowey Museum, right by the water. It’s a small but great spot, packed with local history—from the town’s past to its literary connections.
3. Visit St. Catherine’s Castle
A short walk from the town centre brings you to St. Catherine’s Castle. Built by Henry VIII to defend the coast from pirates and French invaders, the castle is small but offers views of the river and out to sea. The site is peaceful and makes for a lovely place to sit and relax for a while. It’s one of those spots that feels off the beaten path, despite being so close to the heart of the town.
The walk to the castle is part of its charm—through quiet lanes and a bit of woodland before you reach the clifftop. If you’re into history or just love a good view, it’s well worth the visit.
4. Visit Readymoney Cove
If you’re visiting in summer or it just happens to be sunny! You can’t miss Readymoney Cove. This sheltered beach, a short walk from the town centre, is perfect for relaxing. With its clear, inviting waters, it’s one of those places where you can just kick back and enjoy the scenery. It’s also a great spot for a swim or a paddle in the sea, though it’s not exactly a secret, so it can get a little busy during peak months.
If you’re more into history than sunbathing, the cove is also home to the Old Lifeboat Station, which tells the story of Fowey’s history as a maritime port. Either way, it’s a lovely place to spend an hour or two.
5. Enjoy Lunch in Fowey
By now, you’ll probably be ready to eat, and Fowey has no shortage of great places to grab a bite. There are pubs, cafés, and restaurants dotted all over town, many of which offer outdoor seating with views over the river. If you’re craving seafood, you’re in the right place—Cornwall is famous for its fresh fish, and Fowey’s waterfront location means you’re never far from a great seafood dish.
For something a little more laid-back, you can grab a Cornish pasty or a sandwich from one of the town’s bakeries and enjoy it with a view of the harbour. If you’re after something more elegant, The Old Quay House offers delicious local food with view across the river. Whatever you choose, the food in Fowey tends to be simple but always made with quality ingredients.
6. Take a Walk on the South West Coast Path
One of the best things about Fowey is its proximity to the South West Coast Path, a long-distance trail that runs along the Cornish coastline. Even if you’re not up for a long hike, there are plenty of short, scenic walks that you can enjoy.
7. Finish the Day with a Drink at the Pub
As the day winds down, there’s no better way to finish your visit to Fowey than with a drink at one of its waterside pubs. The Ship Inn is a local favourite, with its traditional Cornish feel It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for an evening pint.
8. Take a Piece of Fowey Home with You
Before you head home, take a few minutes to head into the local shops. Fowey is full of independent stores that sell everything from local art and handmade jewellery to Cornish-made soaps and pottery. If you’re a book lover, make sure to stop by The Fowey Bookshop, which has a selection of books—perfect for picking up a souvenir or a gift to remember your visit.
Fowey is a great place to visit in Cornwall, it can get busy during the summer months, so just make sure you give yourself plenty of time. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a whole day, there’s plenty to the town that’ll make you want to come back again. If you’re in Cornwall, don’t miss the chance to spend a day in this popular town. You won’t regret it.