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 has had as many as 7,000 visiting yachts in a season.

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 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.

Click here for VisitCornwall’s guide to activities in and around Fowey

Walks & Cycle Routes

Golitha Falls - A short walk around Golitha Falls which is an ancient area of woodlands that sit alongside the river Fowey as it cascades its way through a steep valley gorge.See below for detailed route description.

The Goss Moor Multi-Use Trail - Goss Moor Multi Use Trail

Par Duckpond - A short walk around Par duckpond and nearby area.

The Coast and Clay Trail - Hens An Morrep Ha´n Pow Pry (Truro to Bodmin via St Austell) Multi-Use Trail

The Saints'  Way - From Padstow to Fowey covering approximately 30 miles / 48 Km.

Click here for all walks that have been added to the Walk4Life website for in and around Fowey