Walking in Fowey: Discover the South West Coast Path and More

Fowey is a walker’s paradise, offering breathtaking coastal scenery, historic trails, and a variety of routes to explore. Walking in Fowey could include the iconic South West Coast Path, the ancient Saints Way, or the Cornish Celtic Way. In my opinion, there’s no better place to experience the beauty of Cornwall on foot!

As the owner of Readymoney Beach Shop, I am proud to be a South West Coast Path Waymaker. This means that we contribute to vital funding to keep the South West Coast Path maintained. Did you know that for a donation of only £10 you could also help to replace one of the 33,000 steps along the Path, helping to keep the trail usable for visitors all year round?

Our covered beach shelter is a great place to rest along the way and enjoy one of our delicious Cornish ice-creams, freshly brewed coffee, hot Cornish pasties and proper homemade cake. We've also got a water refill tap right by the door to keep that essential hydration up, free for all to use whether a paying customer or not.

The beach shop is open every day except Christmas Day (check here for times) and there is a free to use public toilet open all day every day for general use. We're here whatever the weather to make your walking adventure even more enjoyable. 

The South West Coast Path: A Walk Like No Other

The South West Coast Path is the longest waymarked trail in England. The path stretches 630 miles along some of the most dramatic and picturesque coastline in the country. The coast path route through Fowey brings you stunning views over the estuary with hidden coves just waiting to be discovered. As a Waymaker, we are always ready to welcome and assist walkers, offering information and supplies. And what better a place to take a well-earned break and enjoy the views across Readymoney Cove.

If you are collecting stamps along your journey, we also have the official South West Coast Path stamp in the shop. The motif for this section of the path is an anchor. Don’t forget to pop in and add it to your collection!

Still planning your walk? Why not buy a copy of the official South West Coast Path guide from us. Also popular with coast path walkers (and with runners) is our scratch off South West Coast Path poster. Use it to record the dates you tackle each section and mark your progress.

Walking in Fowey: The Saints Way and Cornish Celtic Way

Did you know that Fowey is also home to two other historically significant walking routes?

The Saints Way:

The Saints Way, is a 27-mile pilgrimage route, crossing Cornwall from Padstow to Fowey, following the path of early Christian travellers. Readymoney Cove is a key point along this journey, offering a scenic stop before the final stretch into the centre of Fowey. We did the Saints Way as a family back in 2020, I think we split it into about six sections to cope with little legs (and moaning children!). We all really enjoyed it but would recommend using an OS map just to make sure you take the right path at certain points.

If you're looking for some additional motivation to walk The Saints Way then every year important Cornish charity Cornwall Hospice Care run a fundraising Saints Way trek. For 2025 you can choose either a 1 day or 2 day option, taking place over the weekend of 21st and 22nd June. Both walks end at Readymoney Cove and we'll be ready with ice-cream rewards! Click here for more information.

The Cornish Celtic Way:

Another long-distance route, the Cornish Celtic Way, combines ancient pilgrimage routes with stunning coastal scenery. This 125-mile trail between St Germans and St Michael's Mount links churches, ancient sites, and holy wells, giving walkers a deeper connection to Cornwall’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

If you are walking either of these routes, you are welcome to our use logo stamp to mark your journey to Readymoney Cove whether using one of the official walk passports or not.

Whether you're setting off on a multi-day trek or just enjoying a leisurely stroll, we have everything you need at Readymoney Beach Shop:

• Cold drinks and ice creams to cool off on warm days
• Locally roasted coffee, tea, and hot chocolate to warm up on cooler days
• Light snacks and tasty Cornish treats to keep your energy levels up
• Walking essentials such as sunglasses, reusable water bottles plus warm hats & cosy socks if the weather takes a turn
• Locally inspired gifts and souvenirs, perfect for remembering your time in Fowey

Our friendly team is always happy to offer local knowledge and recommendations for the best walking routes. You may also be interested in our collection of walking books. The titles by Liz Hurley (no, not that Liz Hurley) are particularly well written and very well tested by local writer Liz. Perfect for planning your next ramble!

The Salt Path: A Story of Walking and Resilience

Many walkers are inspired by Raynor Winn’s bestselling book, The Salt Path, which tells the true story of her and her husband’s journey along the South West Coast Path. Their adventure, which highlights the healing power of walking in nature, has resonated with millions of readers. With the movie adaptation set to be released this year, there’s no better time to experience the magic of the coast path for yourself.

Plan Your Walking Adventure in Fowey

Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual walker, walking in Fowey offers something for everyone. Although not via Readymoney, the National Trust's Hall Walk is always a popular choice for visitors and locals, involving two ferry journeys across the river and back.

If the routes mentioned above simply feel like too much of a challenge then I can't underestimate the joy of the 10-15 minute walks to Readymoney Cove along either St Catherine's Parade or along The Esplanade. When you're at the cove, you can take either the steps off the beach (depending on the tide) or the path between the cottages up onto the coast path. Enjoy the views from St Catherine's Castle, continue along to Polridmouth or to Polkerris or even just come straight back down for coffee & cake or an ice-cream!

With Readymoney Beach Shop here to support you every step of the way (pun intended!), you’ll always find a warm welcome, refreshments, and the perfect memento of your journey.

Next time you're walking in Fowey, do pop in and see us. Grab a coffee, collect your coast path stamp, and soak in the beauty of this stunning part of Cornwall! We can't wait to see you!