Classic deep water estuary
Web: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cornwall/coast-beaches/things-to-see-and-do-around-the-fowey-estuary
The estuary is only navigable by larger craft for the last seven miles There is a ferry crossing between Fowey and Bodinnick. The first road crossing going upstream is in Lostwithiel. The river has seven tributaries, the largest being the River Lerryn.
The River Fowey rises high on Bodmin Moor and flows down past Siblyback Lake and Golitha Falls, passing nearby St. Neot before it turns West along the Glynn Valley to reach Bodmin Road Station. Then turning south again, passing Restormel Castle and through Lostwithiel under the 14th century bridge where it becomes tidal. Flowing past St. Winnow Church it is joined by the River Lerryn. The estuary passes Golant on the west bank and Bodinnick on the east bank before passing between Fowey and Polruan, meeting the sea by Readymoney Cove and St. Catherine's Castle.
Bodinnick
Across the river crossed by a car ferry from Fowey. Colour-washed cottages climb a hill which affords magnificent views over Fowey and its Estuary. Ferryside, down by the river, was once the home of author Daphne du Maurier.
Fowey
(Pronounced Foy) Historic seafaring town in an idyllic location on the western bank of the Fowey River and is linked by a foot and car ferry to Polruan on the opposite side of the river. Home of Fowey Gallants in Hundred Years' War, the Troy Town of Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch. Associations with Daphne du Maurier. Tortuous main street clings to waterside, offering intriguing glimpses of boats of every description. Ancient church of St. Fimbarrus. Excellent beaches nearby. Start/finish of the Saints Way. Local pubs are The Lugger Inn, The Galleon Inn and The Ship Inn.
Golant
Waterside village overlooking Penpoll creek, near Fowey, with an inn, jetty and a few cottages. Nearby Castle Dore earthworks reputedly the site of King Mark's castle, in the legend of Tristan and Iseult. The church of St. Sampson is is on the slope above the village. Local pub is The Fishermans Arms.
Lerryn
A pretty fairytale village with swans, ducks, village green and many little boats. Three miles south-east of Lostwithiel. This is where Kenneth Grahame came for walks while he was writing "The Wind In The Willows". This part of the Fowey River joins in with the Lerryn River with its source at Braddock. Before the second World War, sailing vessels travelled up here with quarry stone. The river can be crossed by stepping stones at low tide and, at spring tides, can flood over the green and up to, and sometimes into, the surrounding cottages. A large earth works known as the Giants Hedge runs from Lerryn to Looe. The hedge is believed to be a defensive dyke built during the Dark Ages. Local pub is The Ship Inn.
Lostwithiel
Quiet, charming 13th century capital of Cornwall with 15th century bridge over the River Fowey. Guildhall, Old Duchy Palace and St. Bartholomew's church. Restormel Castle, north of town, besieged in Civil War. Braddock Down, to east, site of famous Royalist victory. Main line railway station.
Polruan
Small fishing and boat building village across the river from Fowey. Cottages cling to the steep hillside amidst winding alleys and passageways. Spectacular views across the estuary. The parish church of St. Winwaloe is in a farmyard enclosed by fields and a few elms. Local pubs are the Lugger Inn and the Russell Inn.
St. Winnow
On the bank of the River Fowey, south of Lostwithiel. The church of St. Wynnocus is on the river bank. There is also a chapel which was battered down during the Civil War in August 1644.
Polruan Blockhouse
Was one of a pair of defensive structures to defend The Fowey Estuary.
Restormel Castle
The first castle on the site was probably built shortly after the Norman Conquest, but the present building dates from the 13th century. It now stands above Lostwithiel and overlooks The River Fowey.
St. Catherine's Castle
Situated on the tip of the rocky headland known as St. Catherine's Point, Fowey at the entrance to the Fowey Estuary.
St. Winnow Barton Farm Museum
A charming collection of memorabilia and implements from a bygone age,
Fowey Golant Lostwithiel Polruan