A weekend in Fowey

A deep-water harbour town and Daphne du Maurier's Cornwall

Independent UK guide
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Updated October 2026

Fowey, pronounced Foy, is a lovely working harbour on the south Cornish coast, with steep streets of cottages above the estuary and boats of all sizes in the river. It was the home of the novelist Daphne du Maurier, who set several books here, and it hosts a literary festival each May.

Ferries run across the river to the village of Polruan, and walks lead along the cliffs and creeks, while the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are within a short drive.

Best forHistory lovers, Culture fans, Food lovers, Walkers

Best time to goSpring to autumn. May brings the du Maurier literary festival and August the regatta, both busy.

Typical budget (2 people, 2 nights)£420–£730, excluding travel

Getting thereExeter: About 2 hours by car.

Check prices for a weekend in Fowey

Plan your weekend in Fowey

Top attractions in Fowey

The harbour and the quay

A busy estuary with working ships, yachts and a ferry to Polruan.

The Hall Walk

A scenic circular walk of about four miles, using the Polruan ferry, with views over both villages.

St Catherine's Castle

A small Tudor fort on a headland, with views out to sea.

Readymoney Cove

A sheltered little beach a short walk from the town.

Eden Project and Heligan

Two of Cornwall's best-known gardens, within about 25 minutes by car.

Best things to do in Fowey

Guides to the activities most people plan a weekend around.

Camel Trail cycling

The Camel Trail is a flat, traffic-free path along a former railway line beside the Camel Estuary, running from Padstow to Wadebridge and on towards Bodmin. Allow 2 to 4 hours.

Tintagel Castle visit

Tintagel Castle is a ruined fortress on a dramatic Cornish headland, linked by legend with King Arthur. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours.

Seafood in Padstow

Padstow is one of Cornwall's best-known food towns, centred on a working fishing harbour. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours.

Best areas to stay in Fowey

The town centre

Close to shops, cafes and the quay.

Polruan

A quieter village across the water, reached by ferry.

Readymoney or Bodinnick

Peaceful corners near the estuary.

Best hotels in Fowey

These are well-established hotels often recommended for the area, listed in no particular order. They are not paid placements. Check current ratings, prices and availability before you book.

The Fowey Hall Hotel

Compare places to stay in Fowey

Prices change daily, so check a few sites. For dog-friendly or quiet stays, use the pet and review filters. These are affiliate links.

Best time to visit Fowey

Spring to autumn. May brings the du Maurier literary festival and August the regatta, both busy.

Seasons that suit Fowey well: spring, summer, autumn.

Estimated budget for a weekend in Fowey

Hotel or B&B, per night for two	£130–£220
Food and drink, per day for two	£65–£100
Activities and extras for the weekend	£30–£90
Estimated total, 2 people, 2 nights, excluding travel	£420–£730

Higher-priced destination. These are rough 2026 estimates and vary by season and room type. Add the cost of getting there. For a personalised figure, use the BritBreaks finder.

Getting to Fowey

From Exeter: About 2 hours by car.
From Plymouth: About 1 hour by car.
From London: About 4 hours by train to Par, then a bus or taxi of about 20 minutes.

Journey times are rough guides. Check live train and road times before you travel.

A sample weekend in Fowey

Friday evening: Arrive, settle in and have dinner in The town centre.
Saturday: Start with The harbour and the quay, then The Hall Walk. In the afternoon, head to St Catherine's Castle.
Sunday: Visit Readymoney Cove or Eden Project and Heligan, then head home.

Packing list for Fowey

Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.

More kit guides: Beach and coast gear Walking gear Wet-weather gear

Good to know

Streets are narrow and parking is limited, so use the car park at the top of the town.
Summer weekends and the regatta are very busy.
Check ferry timetables.