Fowey’s picturesque town centre has a variety of shops and eateries to enjoy, all set amongst the historic buildings of Fowey. There is a strong Celtic connection, maritime history and literary involvement with Daphne du Maurier, Rosamunde Pilcher and many more including the successful Poldark series.

Explore the steep-sided tree lined valley of the Fowey Estuary by going upstream or enjoying a tranquil estuary walk to discover the diversity of wildlife and birds that use the estuary as their sanctuary. What do you fancy doing whilst in Fowey?

Maybe a gorgeous garden one day, a gallery or museum the next, or perhaps something a little more active – kayaking, boat trips, coastal walking, cycling…take your pick. Or if history and heritage is more your thing, there are historic houses, castles, museums, and World Heritage Sites all within a half hour drive. Fowey’s excellent Visitors Guide has updates of festivals and local events.

St Catherine’s Castle S W Coast Path, Fowey PL23 1JH

St Catherine’s Castle is one of a pair of small artillery forts built by Henry VIII in the 1530s to defend Fowey Harbour. It was modified in the 19th century during the Crimean War and again during the Second World War, when it became home to an anti-aircraft gun and an ammunition store. Find out more.

Fowey Museum Trafalgar Square Fowey PL23 1AY

Fowey museum may be a one room affair, housed in one of the oldest buildings in the town dating back to the 15th century, but it is packed to the ceiling with artefacts illustrating some of the rich and varied history of this harbour town and its inhabitants. The displays are changed every year to commemorate local events. Find out more.

The Du Maurier Literary Centre Tourist Centre 5 South Street Fowey PL23 1AR

The author Daphne du Maurier had a long connection with Cornwall, where she spent family holidays as a child. In 1926 the family bought Ferryside, across the river from Fowey in Bodinnick, where she wrote her first novel, The Loving Spirit. She was married at Lanteglos Church, and for much of her life lived in and around the area, which was to provide the inspiration for much of her work. The Literary Centre, housed in the same building as the Tourist Office, provides an insight into the town’s literary heritage, du Maurier and the many other authors who have been influenced by the area.

Fowey River Hire The Alcove, Albert Quay, Fowey, PL23 1AJ

Fowey River Hire where anyone can have a fabulous fun day on the river. Great for all outdoor adventurers looking to explore Cornwall. A friendly family run business set in the heart of Fowey, they have a large selection of Kayaks, stand up paddle boards and Self-drive boats to hire. You can help you discover your very own adventure or join one of our guided tours with a guide in a safety boat, perfect for those with little or no experience. Whether self-hire or guided, they will give you the advice to ensure you have a very memorable adventure. Find out more.

Fowey Festival of Arts and Literature 2023

Some call it the Fowey Festival 2023. It’s officially called the Fowey Festival of Arts and Literature 2023. And many folk know it simply as the Daphne du Maurier Festival. Whatever you call it, it’s recognised by all as Cornwall’s premier literary festival. And it takes place between 12 and 20 May 2023 in the beautiful south Cornish coastal town of Fowey. Prepare for a glittering array of literary, music and arts stars, as well as a raft of talks, guided walks, musical performances, art trails, garden peeks and a whole lot more besides.

The festival programme is packed and varied every year. The 2022 event featured literary heavyweight Michael Morpurgo, poet Roger McGough, “The Suffragette Cookbook” author Kate Williams, former Children’s Laureate Lauren Child, naval battle writer Dr Helen Doe, novelist, fashion writer and biographer Justine Picardie and prolific novelist Patrick Gale. There are always plenty of musical performances to look forward to spread over nine days and evenings. In 2022, much-loved Southwest musician, songwriter and singer Seth Lakeman was on the musical menu, as was local composer, musician, and creator of the “Helford Honeymoon” EP that’s inspired by the life and works of du Maurier, Davey Hal. Find out more.

Fowey Regatta and Carnival Week Various venues around Fowey, Fowey, Cornwall, PL23 1AT

one of the country’s best-loved Regattas, attracting thousands of visitors, many making an annual pilgrimage. The Regatta is one of the UK’s best known sailing events with a long history. There’s a full programme of races for Troys, Fowey Rivers, Cruisers, Falmouth Working Boats and a handicap dinghy fleet. Traditional land-based events include the Carnival procession, fireworks displays, the crab-catching competition and Fowey harbour swim, the Giant Pasty ceremony and pasty-eating competition, flora dance and, of course, Fowey Town Band. Plus, live music every night on Town Quay. Find out more.

Fowey Aquarium Town Quay Fowey PL23 1AT

The Aquarium is situated on the historic Fowey Town Quay and gives a fascinating glimpse into the marine life found around the Cornish coast. Although the aquarium is small, our visitors are constantly amazed by the variety of marine creatures on display.

In addition to a wide range of fish from the tiny gobies and shannies from the shallows up to Conger eels which inhabit deep wrecks, there are various types of crabs and lobsters lurking in the corners!

Children will especially enjoy the touch pool where they can pick up a shore crab or have their fingers tickled by prawns. Find out more.