Fowey

The unique, charming village of Fowey (pronounced foy to rhyme with joy) lies on the west bank of the River Fowey on the south coast of Cornwall between Mevagissey and Looe.

Designated an area of outstanding natural beauty with its pretty estuary, narrow streets, quaint cottages and miles of unspoilt open countryside, Fowey thrives as a picturesque holiday town. As a thriving commercial seaport, Fowey is not only an exporting port for china clay but is also a popular destination for large cruise liners and yachts and boats of all shapes and sizes.

A short trip on the Bodinnick car ferry or the small, foot passenger ferry, takes you to the other side of the river and Polruan – an ancient fishing village with a strong boat-building heritage. This quiet, steep sided hamlet offers stunning views of the estuary and out to sea and from the top of the village you can gain access to the South West coastal path that passes beautiful, remote beaches as it wends its way to Polperro and beyond.

Many a happy hour can be spent perusing Fowey’s many interesting and unique shops, galleries and restaurants and also enjoyable is a walk along the Esplanade, past Readymoney Cove (and its sandy beach) to the ruins of St Catherine’s castle and fort. Another popular excursion is a trip on the Fowey – Mevagissey ferry that runs throughout the summer months and links these two contrasting ports.

There is a festival each May that celebrates the life and work of Dame Daphne du Maurier who spent most of her life in this area and every August there is a delightful Regatta that boasts competitive sailing events, a carnival, a display by the Red Arrows and showcases local bands performing on the quay.