No 2, Old Station Master’s House

Narrow-streets and plenty of charm sum up fabulous Fowey. Its nautical history lends it to picture-postcard views, and streets lined with quaint pubs and restaurants. It is also home to the Polruan Ferry, which takes you just across the estuary for waterside views of Fowey and walks up the headland.

Fowey was the home of writer, Daphne du Maurier, so it has attracted her fans for many years. Her world of wreckers and creeks captured the literary imagination, drawing many to this splendid town on the south coast of Cornwall. The Menabilly Estate features as Manderley in Rebecca. There is now an annual arts and literature event, Fowey Festival, which takes place in May, featuring established and emerging writers.

Check out the Fowey Museum at the waterfront, and perhaps enjoy a cream tea at the splendid Fowey Hotel. Fimbarrus Church sits in Fowey. It features in du Maurier’s My Cousin Rachel, where Philip is worshipping while Rachel is having a secret assignation – yes, it all happens in her novels so you may want to read one while you’re here. In the church, seek out the beautifully-carved font with its decorative honeysuckle leaf pattern.

In days of yore, Fowey, a pilchard exporting town, was prey to pirates; it was also occupied by Parliamentarian troops during the Civil War. It is hard to imagine its turbulent history when you visit today, so make the most of its modern amenities. Perhaps a river trip? Or a visit to the aquarium comprising native and local species such as crabs and lobsters. For something a little different, maybe try the Bird Lady of Fowey with her collection of owls and hawks. Meanwhile, art connoisseurs might enjoy a visit to the unique River Gallery.

For food, you have many options but Appleton’s Bar and Restaurant comes highly recommended by locals for rustic Italian food with a contemporary twist: brunch, lunch and dinner options are all available.