Back to top

Hometown Guide: Fowey, Cornwall 

Our Fowey shop team give their recommendations for what to see, drink, eat and do in town.

09/08/23

Nestled within an area of outstanding natural beauty, Fowey’s picturesque town centre has a variety of independent cafes, boutiques and gift shops. It has a strong maritime history, and Daphne du Maurier and Rosamunde Pilcher both based novels here.

It’s also where we opened our 5th ever Seasalt shop on Fore Street, a short walk from the quay and its beautiful views of the boats on the Fowey River.

Fowey for food and drinks

Our shop manager Carole recommends Havener’s. It’s situated on the town quay with great views of the river across to Polruan, and champions the very best local ingredients. You’ll find their own contemporary takes on pub classics, sumptuous seasonal specials and dreamy desserts. 

If you are looking for breakfast options, light lunches and great coffee, Brown Sugar offers it all. Enjoy homemade cakes and a classic cream tea, and there's outdoor seating available too. Perfect to soak up any summer sun.  

Fowey Sweet Shop is the place to go and get some delicious fudge, chocolate and traditional sweets. There are forty varieties of Belgian chocolates and biscuits; perfect for keeping your energy up on Cornish wanders, or as a present to take home.

Fowey shops for browsing

David and Kieron opened Brocante with a vision to create a warm, welcoming, beautiful space. They’ve definitely succeeded. It’s full of design inspiration, and the perfect place to browse for unique jewellery, quirky gifts and homeware.

Fowey also has its own bookshop, Shrew Books.  Kate brings the local community and its visitors a curated range of new books, as well as championing Cornish writers and books that are set here. There's a good selection of children’s books. They also host events and a popular book club.

Fowey things to see and do

Wander down to the harbour, which is full of yachts, cruisers, canoeists, body boarders, boat hires and rowers in the summer months. Gig rowing has been a major part of Fowey for over 40 years, and the crews have had their share of success during that time. 

Fowey Harbour Commissioners are responsible for 11 kilometres of Fowey’s beautiful estuary. You can take a boat ride upstream, or follow the Hall Walk, a circular walk from Bodinnick to Fowey via Polruan. Passing through woodlands and creeks, the route takes in the green waters of Pont Pill and has great views out to sea. 

Readymoney Cove is the local beach to the south of the harbour. It is south facing and sheltered by cliffs, bounded on one side by a medieval town and the other by St. Catherine’s Castle, which was built by Henry VIII.

Fowey Regatta week  is the highlight of Fowey’s year both on and off the water. Don’t miss the spectacular sailing events, the carnival and fabulous fireworks this August.

What are your favourite places to explore in Fowey? Let us know on Facebook or Instagram and share where you’re #wearingseasalt this summer. 

Related Posts