Five things to do in Fowey outside peak season

As the weather starts to turn and the nights draw in visitor numbers in our little town start to dwindle. But after the hustle and bustle of probably the craziest season ever, there's a lot to be said for visiting out of season and there are still so many things to do in Fowey. My blog post from earlier this year of how to spend the perfect day in Fowey was super popular but rather geared towards the summer months (although still worth a read) so I thought it was a worth a quick update with my top five things to do in Fowey out of season. So, in no particular order:

1. Pay a visit to MAD Fowey

This brilliant new tourist attraction is based in the town's old Barclays bank building opposite the church. The little sister of a much larger museum in Stratford-upon-Avon and the brainchild of real-life Wallace & Gromit style creative genius Richard, there is a lot to see in a small space, whatever your age. Don't forget to pay a visit to the bathroom (whether you need to go or not) to check out the coolest loo in town, a great collaboration between Richard and local plumber Nial.

MAD Fowey has handles to turn, buttons to press, windows to peep through and balls to roll. It's really different but really interesting and they offer a discounted entry during the winter.

**STOP PRESS* I’ve just discovered that MAD Fowey are closing for November. Do give their social media pages a follow for updates for opening hours from December onwards**.

2. A bracing dip at Readymoney

Cold water swimming has become a huge trend during the pandemic. I've recently taken it up, despite not being the strongest swimmer and it's fast becoming addictive. You don't need specialist kit (although my ever increasing collection of gloves, dryrobe, phone case, tow float etc might suggest otherwise...) but do be prepared.

Readymoney is generally very safe to swim all year round but go accompanied if you can, watch out for floating debris after storms, don't go past the swim line or (past the last rocks once the swim line gets removed for the winter) and don't stay in too long, it's more about the mental health benefits of an invigorating dip than clocking up distance in the water.

Check out The Outdoor Swimming Society website for top tips to keep you safe and come and see us afterwards for a hot chocolate to warm you up from the inside!

3. Get into the festive spirit with Fowey's Christmas Market Weekend.

Always a buzzing and vibrant event for our town, Fowey really comes to life over this winter weekend with a variety of stalls in three separate markets across the town. Starting with late night shopping and the Christmas lights switch on on the Friday night, you will be able to shop until you drop and this really is one of the most festive things to do in Fowey.

Our shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants also join in with the festive spirit so do pop in and see them too. There might even be a certain jolly visitor at Readymoney again this season, watch this space!

4. Do a 2 Minute Beach Clean and build some beach art

Although our beach clean board is popular all year round, the winter storms can bring more beach litter than usual. We've certainly had a few weird and wonderful things wash up over the years: several Christmas wreaths and a leek being two of the most memorable!

Our board is out 24/7 so you can use the pickers and buckets to clean your board, disposing of any plastic rubbish in the bins as you come off the beach. If you do come across any big pieces of waste, just leave them by the waste bins and our lovely Council bin operatives will take them away and dispose of them safely, there was half a washed up table left for them this morning!

If there's no waste then why not use some of the driftwood and pebbles to create a bit of beach art? I'm always impressed by the brilliant sculptures, stacks and other creations which I happen upon, do send me a picture or tag the shop socials if you or your children create something fabulous, I'd love to share!

5. Sunday roast in front of a roaring fire

There is no better time of the year to enjoy a delicious Sunday roast in Fowey's oldest pub, The Ship Inn, established in 1570. If you'd rather DIY then a visit to Kittow's next door will see you right with locally sourced meat and veg and other delicious produce including an ever changing range of pre-prepared meals. One of our family's favourite things to do in Fowey.

Let me know if there are any other things to do in Fowey which you'd recommend! Join the conversation on my Instagram or Facebook.