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Fowey

Fowey is a small but busy port and natural harbour. The town, with its many medieval and Tudor cottages, is idyllic, and attracts countless visitors each year. St Catherine's Castle, at the harbour entrance, was built by command of Henry VIII to defend the harbour from invasion. The Old House of Foye on Fore Street, built in 1430, is now a shop but is one of the town's oldest buildings. The town's church was ruined by French marauders in the fifteenth century, but was later rebuilt by the Earl of Warwick. Place House, behind the church, is the home of the Treffry family, and has been for many centuries. The house is not open to the public. Fowey Museum, in the town hall, is open throughout the summer, and provides a very interesting insight into the town's eventful past. Fowey was a major port in the fourteenth century and was, more recently, used in the export of china clay. There are ferries to Polruan and Boddinick; it is well worth taking the ferry to Polruan as the views from the top of Polruan Hill are amazing. The Fowey River is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is ideal for those who enjoy walking. Daphne du Maurier once lived in Fowey, and each May, a festival is held in the town to celebrate her life and work. Fowey Regatta Week is celebrated each August; this is a hugely popular sailing event including competitions and a carnival.