Accessed via the South West Coast Path just a short distance from Fowey, the 16th century St Catherine’s Castle has witnessed the various passages of the town’s social and military history. Originally built as part of Henry VIII’s defensive network around the coast, it has stood the test of time and provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s yesteryears.
If you are staying in one of our luxury cottages in Fowey and fancy a leg stretch, why not pay a visit to St Catherine’s Castle? Built in the 1530s, it was the first of Henry VIII’s artillery forts to be built around the coast, defending the country from potential invasion from Europe. Later joined by St Mawes and Pendennis castles in the 1540s, the build of St Catherine’s was overseen by local big gun Thomas Treffry, whose family had played a major role in town proceedings for years.
Despite European threat never actually materialising, St Catherine’s Castle’s defensive potential was still recognised, receiving extensive repair works in the 1600s and manned during the first English Civil War. In 1855, gun batteries were added to the structure in light of the Crimean War which were then modified further and extended during the Second World War, when it also became home to an anti-aircraft gun and an ammunition store.
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A real time capsule revealing over 400 years of military architecture, St Catherine’s Castle will be a real point of interest for history-lovers and those looking to unearth some of the area’s vast history. Boasting an unrivalled position atop the cliffs, its military days are now far behind it and these days the castle provides a peaceful viewing platform in which to take in the jaw-dropping views of Fowey and the estuary.
Should you fancy making your way over, the castle is open to the public throughout the year. Free of charge, it is visitable during any reasonable time in daylight hours and only a stone’s throw from Fowey’s pubs and eateries. If you are coming from a different direction, English Heritage shares further information on how to get to the castle here.
After your visit to St Catherine's Castle, amble into the ancient streets of Fowey for further discovery. Here's our guide to some of the best things to do in Fowey.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Fowey here.
St Catherine’s Cove, Fowey PL23 1JH | 0370 333 1181 | www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/st-catherines-castle/
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