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What Fowey has to offer



    

    

What Fowey has to offer.

Fowey is situated on the South Coast of Cornwall between Looe and Mevagissey, it’s not only a historical town, but has become a commercial seaport. Designated as An Area of Outstanding Beauty, Fowey has much to offer in the form of walks, swimming, sailing, fishing, and a wealth of archaeological material close by to suit everybody, whatever your likes.

There are many places of interest not only in the town but the surrounding area too. With Fowey’s rich and varied history much can be learnt about the town by visiting the Museum and exploring the romantic ancient port which is Fowey.

Fowey is a river and estuary whose creeks provide astonishing variety to yachtsmen, fishermen and walkers. Near the waterfront lie antique shops, restaurants, chandlers and historic pubs. There are architectural gems in the tiny streets that twist and tumble down the hillside towards the estuary.

Fowey is known for its romantic settings that inspired Daphne Du Maurier in the writing of her novels. Rebecca being just one novel that was written and inspired by the romantic surroundings of Fowey. The Daphne Du Maurier Literary Centre offers insight into her life and work, with features other local authors. Fowey holds literary links with Kenneth Grahame (author of Wind in the Willows), Leo Walmsley and Sir Arthur Quiller Couch. The ‘Q’ memorial (in honour of Sir Arthur) stands looking downriver at Hall Walk, a National Trust property. A path from here winds along the side of the hill with splendid views across to Fowey and Polruan. This is a delightful walk enjoyed best early in the year when the paths are bright with a variety of spring flowers. If you are a fan of Daphne Du Maurier then you will take special pleasure in this walk, but even if you’re not, you may well become one. Fowey offers walks, trips and talks exploring the literary connections of the area.

From the 11 th -20 th of May, the Daphne Du Maurier Festival of Arts and Literature features various events and artists. It’s held in various locations throughout Fowey. It’s an entertaining 10 days of star names, guided walks, talks, drama, local events and free entertainment to be enjoyed by all ages.

From the 13 th – 19 th of August the Fowey Royal Regatta and Carnival Week takes place with a week of sailing and festivities.

Things to do include; walking the coastal path to Gribben Head and its crowning ‘Daymark’ an immense Graeco-Gothic edifice erected in 1832 as a warning mark to sailors of the shallow waters. Today, the Daymark and its garish red and white stripes, is forgiven for its intrusion because of its historical significance. St Catherines Castle and The R ashleigh Mausoleum are other such interesting sites. Walk the Bronze Age Saints way between Fowey and Padstow, or the famous Hall Walk alongside the estuary. Explore the coves of Whitehouse, Readymoney, Coombe or Polridmouth. Take a river or coastal cruise from Fowey Town Quay, or even a guided tour of the town with visits to the Fowey Museum and Aquarium.

Engage in the town’s history with a spot of fishing, try for trout or salmon on the upper reaches of the River Fowey (Licences and permits required) or just enjoy a ferry trip to the villages of Bodinnick or Polruan. During the summer period there are extra boat trips that will take you up the river Fowey to the antiques capital of Cornwall that is Lostwithiel which is another of Cornwall's hidden treasures.