The town of Fowey, where Daphne du Maurier and Kenneth Grahame lived, boasts a crab shack (Image: Getty)
Nestled on a quaint estuary in South Cornwall, the fishing town of Fowey is not just known for its trade and history of piracy and smuggling.
It’s also home to two of Britain’s most renowned authors, secret coves, a seventh-century church, a castle, and comedy legend Dawn French.
Fowey was home to Dawn French, who lived in a Grade II-listed building called Point Neptune.
The Vicar of Dibley star resided in this 19th-century mansion, which boasts an impressive view of the harbour, for 15 years before deciding to sell it earlier this year.
Dawn originally purchased Point Neptune back in 2006 for £3million, before moving out in 2021.
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Fowey used to be home to Dawn French (Image: Getty)
But Dawn wasn’t the only famous face to call Fowey home, reports MyLondon.
You might catch a glimpse of Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan strolling around Fowey.
The celebrated authors Daphne du Maurier and Kenneth Grahame once resided in this charming town, adding a touch of literary history to its allure.
Yet, Fowey is far more than just a haunt for the famous; it’s a hotspot for some of the finest seafood dining in Cornwall.
The delightful Captain Hank’s Crab and Snack Shack serves a sumptuous array of Cornish crab and fresh local seafood from an iconic vintage Citroen H van located with prime views by the river.
Patrons can savour mouth-watering offerings such as crab sandwiches, crab bon bons, garlic butter pan seared prawns, and classic fish finger sandwiches.
Captain Hank’s has earned high praise, clinching the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award back in 2021, as satisfied diners consistently award five stars complimenting their exquisite meals.
One happy diner noted: “Found this gem of a food truck purely by accident but are we glad we did! Food was amazing, freshly cooked and beautifully served. I had the crab bon bons and my husband had the fish finger buttie both were gorgeous.”
Another customer enthused: “Amazing off the beaten track sea food heaven! Loved it! Stumbled on by chance while walking through Fowey. What a gem of a location with stunning views of the river. If you like seafood locally sourced then it doesn’t get much better than this!”
A further reviewer expressed surprise: “What a fantastic place, I can’t believe food of this quality comes out of such a tiny space!”
Wander around the historic St Catherine’s Castle (Image: Heritage Images/Getty Images)
For those interested in exploring more of Fowey’s rich history, St Catherine’s Castle is a must-visit.
Overlooking the mouth of the River Fowey, this fortress was constructed by Henry VIII in the 1530s to protect the town’s harbour.
The castle underwent significant modifications over the centuries, transforming into an extensive artillery battery during the Crimean War and later during World War II.
Another historical gem in Fowey is the Parish Church, dedicated to St Fimbarrus.
This Norman church became a Benedictine Priory in 1180 and was rebuilt two centuries later with the addition of a clerestory – a feature rarely seen in medieval Cornish churches.
Between the 13th and 15th centuries, Fowey was a notorious hub for pirates who targeted shipping routes in the Channel.
Readymoney Cove is just a short walk from the town centre (Image: Education Images/Getty Images)
In 1457, French soldiers attacked the town in an attempt to curb the activities of these Cornish pirates.
The French troops ransacked the town before advancing towards a manor house near the church, known as Place.
Legend has it that the owner of Place, Elizabeth Treffy, thwarted the French invaders by pouring molten lead on them as they tried to enter the house.
Unable to penetrate the manor, the soldiers turned their attention to the church, which they nearly destroyed.
For those looking to enjoy some of Fowey’s natural beauty, there are several beaches to explore.
Readymoney Cove is just a short walk from the town centre, while a stroll along the South West Coast Path will lead you to the hidden gem of Polridmouth Cove.
Wander down the coast to Lantic Bay (Image: Getty)
Across the river from Fowey, in the village of Polruan, you’ll find the stunning turquoise waters of Lantic Bay.
A ferry service operates from the town, offering a scenic route across the river.
If you’re feeling a bit peckish, Fowey boasts several Michelin recommended restaurants including Appleton’s Bar and Restaurant and The Old Quay House.
At Appleton’s, you can enjoy dishes such as Rose harissa fish stew, Squid ink linguine, and Crayfish and potato chowder.
The Old Quay House offers classic Cornish seafood like Soft Herb Crusted Hake and Charred Cornish Mackerel, along with their High Tea and Cream Tea – served the Cornish way (jam first!).
So if you’re seeking a Cornish spot to explore, uncover the history, hidden gems and culinary delights of Fowey.
