The Old Quay House

The pretty village of Fowey, with its narrow lanes and little cottages cascading down the hillside to the harbor, is understandably a popular holiday spot. Besides its maritime history the town has literary associations with Daphne du Maurier, who lived and based her novels in the area. Right on the water in the center of town the Old Quay House was built in 1889 for the harbormaster. His boat dock is now the hotel’s waterside terrace, offering a vista of hundreds of boats bobbing at anchor. The building has been a home for elderly seamen, but most recently Jane and Roy Carson have given the place a complete makeover, creating a beautiful boutique hotel. Bedrooms offer something to suit everyone from richly decorated rooms to those featuring softer beige tones. Several look out over the harbor, but without doubt rooms 6 and 12 offer the most spectacular views. Downstairs the Q restaurant is an excellent place to eat—the food is locally sourced and fish features prominently on the menu. There are spectacular walks along the coastal path. It’s a perfect base for visiting the Eden Project, the Lost Gardens of Heligan and Llanhydrock House.