Under Two Hours Away From Exeter Is A Quaint Fishing Paradise With Vibrant Culture, Shops, And Coastal Charm

Cornwall in southwest England has many claims to fame, with its stunning coastline being one of them. Along this gorgeous stretch are several charming towns and villages that make for an incredible getaway, each boasting its own unique character. One of these towns is Fowey, a historic fishing village along a river of the same name, about an hour and a half from the bustling city of Exeter. If history, natural beauty, and coastal adventure sound like the perfect getaway, look no further than Fowey for your next England vacation.

With winding cobblestone streets and a peaceful coastal atmosphere, it's hard to believe that this quaint town was once a center for conflict and pirate activity. The harbor was not only important for trade during medieval times,  but it was a common port for battleships to depart for foreign conflicts. The town even played a part in the Hundred Years' War when an infamous group of privateers known as the Fowey Gallants began seizing French ships. In the 1530's, King Henry VIII ordered the construction of St. Catherine's Castle to defend the harbor against French forces, a castle which still stands as a reminder of the town's long history. 

Today, Fowey's harbor has replaced pirates and battleships with fishing boats and private yachts, but there is still plenty of history to explore. But history isn't all it has to offer; the river and estuary make it a fishing paradise, and, according to a Tripadvisor review, the town has "such a lovely atmosphere, and every corner seemed to reveal another picturesque view." Plus, the town boasts some incredible shopping opportunities, so there's something for everyone to enjoy in Fowey.

Cornwall's southern coast is dotted with quaint fishing villages, from Charlestown, a port village full of fishermen's cottages and maritime history, to Polperro, an under-the-radar village brimming with endless seaside charm. Fowey stands out thanks to the deep waters of its estuary, which makes fishing such a popular activity here. The species vary often, although seabass and mackerel are two consistent catches. A license is required to fish in the river, which is good for salmon and trout, as well as cod and whiting in the winter months. Beach fishing is also an option; the nearest spot is Readymoney Cove, where bass and pollack sometimes make an appearance.

Beyond fishing, there is still plenty of coastal fun to explore. If you're in the mood for a swim, Readymoney Cove is a small but beautiful sandy beach with access to the historic St. Catherine's Castle, as well as stunning views of the estuary. The beauty of the area is known to have inspired several notable writers, so make sure to take the time to soak in these breathtaking views. One of the best ways to do so is to embark on the Hall Walk, a picturesque 4-mile circular trail that offers views of the harbor as well as neighboring villages. 

The harbor is also a hub of outdoor activity; you can spend time kayaking or paddleboarding on the water, or hop on a ferry to either Polruan or Bodinnick, two historic villages just across the harbor. One of England's most unique family attractions, the Eden Project, is just 15 minutes away by car near Par.

There are plenty of attractions around Fowey that appeal to a wide variety of tastes. Literary enthusiasts should be sure to stop by the Daphne Du Maurier Literary Center, which highlights the life and literature of the British author who wrote some of her acclaimed titles while living here. A few steps away is the Fowey Museum, where visitors can learn even more about the town's seafaring history. There are also plenty of historic buildings to explore; while the oldest building is up for debate, St. Fimbarrus, the parish church, is a top contender. Construction started on this still-active church in 1336. 

An underrated aspect of Fowey is its shopping scene. The town quay is home to independent shops offering one-of-a-kind items as well as river views for you to enjoy as you peruse. For items inspired by the beautiful Cornish coast, the family-owned Webb Street Store "is an absolutely gorgeous gift shop run by very welcoming people," according to a Google Maps review. A short stroll away is the two-story Fowey River Gallery, a shop and art gallery celebrating local artistry in a Georgian-era merchant's home. Shrew Books is another literary attraction; this cozy bookstore replaced the beloved shop Bookends; however, the new shop seems to maintain the feel of the old one. Speaking of literature, if you happen to be visiting in May, be sure to swing by the Du Maurier Fowey Literary Festival, as much an annual celebration of local culture and community as it is literature.