Historically the Fowey area is ancient, dating back to the Iron Age. The Romans had a port here, and many of the old parts of town are mediaeval in origin. St Catherines Castle for instance, was commissioned by Henry VIII, to ward off the marauding fleets of ships that plagued this important harbour.

The SCUBA diving in the surrounding area is second to none in the South-West, with wrecks at depths ranging from 14 to 47 meters, there are good reef dives and even "Cannonball Alley", an area off the reefs where cannonballs shot at the French, Portuguese and Spanish fleets can still be found.

Where the town ends, the interest is just beginning. Relax on the golden beaches of Readymoney Cove or Polridmouth. Take the Cornish coastal path out to Polkerris via St. Catherines Castle and Gribben Head. Follow the famous Hall Walk from Polruan to Bodinnnick, or explore Fowey's extended family of little villages, St. Veep, Golant, Lerryn and St. Winnow on both sides of the river either commuting by boat or by ferry and then walking through ancient woodland on pilgrim trails.