Fowey

Fowey is a small harbour town on the south coast of Cornwall, England, set on a hillside along the estuary that bears its name. This sheltered natural harbour has long relied on maritime trade, particularly the export of china clay mined nearby, an activity still visible today with cargo ships regularly passing through the estuary. The historic centre retains narrow lanes, colourful cottages and a waterfront busy with sailing boats. The town is closely linked to the novelist Daphne du Maurier, who lived here and set several of her works in the surrounding area; a literary festival bears her name. Fowey is a popular starting point for the South West Coast Path, offering views over nearby cliffs and coves, including Readymoney Cove, a small sand-and-shingle beach close to the town centre. A ferry crosses the estuary to the neighbouring village of Polruan. Sailing, fishing and coastal walking are the main activities on offer. Cornwall's mild maritime climate makes the destination pleasant for much of the year, with visitor numbers peaking during the summer months.