The deep estuary made Fowey vulnerable to attack from invading forces and consequently defences were built. The remains can be seen of  a 15th century blockhouse on the Polruan side of the river, once one of a pair, and at times of  trouble a chain was raised between them.

The castle on St Catherine's Point built  around 1540 was commissioned by Henry VIII  as part of a chain of castles along the South Coast of England strategically positioned to protect his most valuable ports.

The famous author  Daphne du Maurier wrote her first novel The Loving Spirit at Ferryside in Bodinnick which is situated  opposite Fowey.  She later moved along the coast a few miles to Menabilly where she lived for the rest of her life.

A trip across the river on the Bodinnick Car Ferry takes you to  Polruan which is also steeped in history. From there  the coastal road continues towards Looe.

Best appreciated from the water, the Fowey estuary has been designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty.  Boat trips departing from Town Quay, depending on the tide, go past the docks and on to Golant and as far as Lerryn.

Today the narrow thoroughfares, character cottages, restaurants traditional pubs and art galleries make Fowey an excellent place to visit or stay.