Boutique Cottages in Fowey

For food, your first stop has to be Sam’s, an old merchant’s house dating back to 1380. Relaxed service and superb food, Sam’s operate a ‘no reservation’ policy so you simply take a seat and order whatever takes your fancy. The menu features a variety of dishes but in our opinion, go for their classic – when it comes to burgers, they won’t be beaten!

For a more romantic environment head to the Bistro in the main street. Reminiscent of an authentic Parisian bistro and with candlelit tables by night, their food is simply sumptuous. On the water, the Old Quay House shows off delicious dishes alongside stunning views and is another great choice if you are looking for something extra special.

On Fore Street, the Michelin-recommended Appleton’s is also well worth your attention. Split over 2 floors, this popular gem comprises a cocktail bar and a deli and offers modern British and Italian dishes. Crafted with local and seasonal Cornish produce, it showcases the best of local and European fare and cuisine.  

If you like your coffee in the morning, combine your morning brew with the laidback vibes of the Lifebuoy Café, a charming little bolthole. As well as inviting pink-toed visitors in to enjoy a cup of tea, the café is also dog-friendly so your wet-nosed pal can join in on the action and nibble on a biscuit or two. 

For an evening cocktail, set your sights back on Sam’s; their cocktail bar and lounge has a beautiful backlit window and all of the staff have been trained by an expert mixologist. They even have cocktails for kiddies (Teeny Colada anyone?) and if you fancy dragging the night out, there is a late license until 1am. Well, when in Fowey…

For more excuses to slip into Cornish time with a pint or two, the Ship Inn is Fowey’s oldest pub, built by adventurer John Rashleigh in 1570. A haven for locals, fishermen and travellers looking to enjoy long conversation and even longer drinks, you are invited to soak up a piece of Fowey’s history.

Enjoy a leisurely drawn-out breakfast in your luxury homestay before heading out for the day. From Fowey, you can take the passenger ferry to Polruan on the opposite side of the river or drive onto the car ferry and make your way to the riverside village of Bodinnick to see where Daphne Du Maurier penned her novels.

If you have an eye for art, you must visit the Fowey River Gallery; situated in a fine Georgian building, it provides a selection of art, ceramics and sculpture. Or, if you’re a (not-so) secret shopaholic, spend a few hours browsing the many luxury boutiques in Fowey for a little treat for yourself or gifts to take home to your friends and family.

When the sun is shining, don your walking boots, grab your towel and pick up the South West Coast Path. From the town centre, the mind-bogglingly beautiful Readymoney Cove is just over half a mile away, with the remains of the 16th Century St Catherine’s Castle a little further on.