Fowey (pronounced Foy) is a delightful small harbour-side town, with a single main street off which run narrow alley-ways and steps leading to quiet corners.

Fowey's church is dedicated to St Fin Barr (Fimbaruus) of Cork and is said to be beautifully proportioned. It was rebuilt in 1336, though the roof was largely rebuilt (using the original timber) in the fifteenth century. The font is Norman and dates to 1150.

Fowey has had a colourful history, with a good deal of `rough and tumble' with the French. The French sent a raiding party and set fire to the town in 1457 following trouble with the men of Fowey. It did no good. In 1469 a local captain, John Willock, captured 15 French ships off the Brittany coast in a fortnight.

Today Fowey's deep water harbour is one of the main export routes for China Clay and large ships from around the world may be seen tied-up at the jetties. Cruise ships also visit Fowey.

Fowey is the start of probably the best circular walk in Cornwall; the Hall Walk.

Fowey is the start (or end) of the Saints Way which runs across to the North Coast port of Padstow.

The coast-walker who wants to travel quickest between Polruan on the east shore of the Fowey river and Fowey itself can use the passenger ferry.