South Cornwall’s fabulous waterside town is replete with things to do, whatever your fancies during your stay.
Whether you’re more of a laidback loafer, adrenaline junkie, outdoor adventurer or culture vulture, Fowey and its surrounds present a myriad of scenes to satisfy your every whim.
From beaches and gardens to attractions and historical monuments, Fowey’s stunning river mouth position in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is ripe holidaying territory, allowing natural scenery to be enjoyed alongside a host of cultural and entertainment hotspots.
Here’s our top pick of things to do in and around Fowey…
Coastal explorer
If it’s Cornwall’s famed beach culture you’re after, then Fowey is chock with seaside spoils. Readymoney Cove is a top choice, boasting pristine sands in a sheltered spot flanked by St Catherine’s Castle, while Polruan’s Back Beach and Quay Beach are both beautifully positioned either side of the picturesque village’s quay.
The twin cove of Polridmouth sits between Fowey and Gribban Head, offering a wild sense of seclusion; or those travelling further east will be rewarded with the sweeping white sands of the strikingly lush, Lantic Bay. West of Fowey, if you venture past Daphne du Maurier’s final home of Kilmarth you’ll stumble across the picturesque, Polkerris Beach and Menbilly Cove - the area is veritably awash with waterside gems to seek out during your stay.
Attractions galore
If the weather disappoints or you’re keen to sample a different side of Fowey, then the array of attractions in and around the town will ensure an enthralling day out for all.
Within walking distance you’ll discover Fowey Aquarium, St Catherine’s Castle, The Du Maurier Literary Centre and Fowey Museum; while short excursions will take you to the 14th century Polruan Blockhouses and Cornwall’s former china clay mining country – today transformed into Wheal Martyn’s brilliant heritage centre, country park and museum, and iconic must-see, the Eden Project.
A taste of the sublime
From roaming green spaces to walking the spectacular South West Coast Path, rural hinterland and creeks, Fowey is a nature-lover and walker’s paradise, affording eye candy of the most awe-inspiring kind at every wild turn.
Immerse yourself into south Cornwall’s sub-tropical climes and its bloom-filled gardens that are dotted throughout some seriously special locations.
Hidden Valley Gardens are, as their name suggests, situated in a spectacular secluded valley comprising three acres of cottage style gardens, while the water and woodland grounds of Tywardreath’s Marsh Villa Gardens can be found in a former tidal creek.
In Par, immerse yourself into the gorgeous glasshouse and woodland gardens of Tregrehan Garden, with nearby St Austell’s Pinetum Gardens home to over 6000 rare plants and eye-catching features such as Japanese garden, lake and arboretum.
Then there’s one of Cornwall’s botanical jewels in the crown, The Lost Gardens of Heligan: a sprawling Gardenesque style estate of restored productive gardens and pleasure grounds that spell pure magic.
Family days out
If family fun is your main prerequisite, then Fowey won’t disappoint. From activities aplenty to playgrounds and unique attractions, there’s something to suit all ages and interests.
Admire life in miniature at Polperro Model Village, unleash pent up energy at Kidzworld Indoor Play, enjoy outdoor action aplenty at Hangloose Adventures or Cardinham Woods, and meet the range of residents at Porfell Wildlife Park.
Alternatively, track down the Bird Lady of Fowey to encounter her hand reared owls and experience handling and flying by booking a personal visit, attending an event or Feast Night, or by heading to her Owl Field at Lescrow Farm. Finally, there's plenty to do on the water including boat trips, kayaking and paddle boarding, so take a look at Fowey River Expeditions and Polkerris Beach watersports.
Find out more about holidays in Fowey here >