Fowey

Fowey - pronounced Foy to rhyme with joy! Situated on the south coast of Cornwall between Looe and Mevagissey, Fowey is not only an historic town but also a commercial seaport. Over the centuries Fowey has grown and now stretches for about a mile along the west bank of the River Fowey to the mouth of the river. On the opposite bank, also at the mouth of the river, is the village of Polruan. A regular passenger ferry connects the two and further up river a car ferry runs from Fowey to Bodinnick on the other side of the river.

Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Fowey has much to offer with something for everyone. A natural harbour, it is a haven for yachtsmen and we have had as many as 7,000 visiting yachts in a season. Fowey is an exporting port for china clay and as such you may see the ships making their way in and out of the harbour. Over the last few years Fowey has been a popular destination for several cruise liners, whose passengers are able to enjoy the delights of the town. What a sight to see these enormous ships come through the narrow harbour entrance, turn in the middle of the river and be pulled upstream to their mooring, the commercial jetties are concealed by a natural bend in the river.

The small museum has interesting displays about the social history of Fowey, next door is the Aquarium and across the road the fine 15th C St Fimbarrus Parish Church. From May to September there is a weekly guided historical town walk, learn a little more of the town and the secrets of some of its historic buildings from a Blue Badge Guide. See more of the town by taking the town tour, this informative sightseeing tour runs most days during the summer period throughout the day.

If you are interested in walking, albeit a gentle stroll along the Esplanade overlooking the river and the harbour mouth, on a warm summer's evening or a hike around the cliffs, then there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The town boasts an excellent selection of quality shops and galleries, many exhibiting local works. If you are looking for refreshment be it a pint, a cream tea, fish and chips, a family meal or a gourmet dinner for a special occasion, then there is something to suit all tastes and pockets. Fowey has a reputation for a wide array of places to eat.
The river is a very important part of the area and can be enjoyed in many ways. In the summer months canoes are available for hire or there are escorted canoe tours. For wild life lovers then the excursions to view the sea and bird life will be a must. Between Easter and late September boat trips are available on a regular basis, enjoy a short river cruise or longer trips to Lerryn or Lostwithiel (subject to tides). Longer boat trip along the coast to Polperro or the ferry to Mevagissey are also available.

Close by (about 9 miles away) is the historic town of Lostwithiel once the capital of Cornwall. The town is home to the ancient Restormel Castle owned by English Heritage. A little further up the road is the National Trust property Lanhydrock with its extensive parkland and beautiful gardens. There are many gardens that can be visited from Fowey, these include The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pine Lodge Gardens, Marsh Villa Gardens and of course the world famous Eden Project.

Fowey is a very special place and has been home to many famous people over the years. We look forward to welcoming you to Fowey.

2010 Events
13th - 22nd May Du Maurier Festival of Arts & Literature
15th – 22nd August Fowey Royal Regatta