Today was our day to explore Fowey, which we did in smaller groups.  Plans to go to Mevigassey were scuppered when predictions of rough seas shut down the ferry service for the day.  Instead, all the adults hopped on the local ferry across the harbor to Polruan where several groups headed off in different directions. (The kids took the morning off, reading and drawing in the B&B.)  Nick and Roger went off in search of the Essa Stone, which they found standing in a field surrounded by bemused sheep.  Susannah tackled the Hall Walk, a 4-mile circular route that featured multiple views of Fowey and Polruan, a footbridge, and an upriver car ferry crossing.  The British thoughtfully place benches by all scenic vistas, leading to the Pavlovian hiker’s response: see bench, expect view!  Meanwhile, Lyn and Dianne poked around Polruan and Fowey before meeting the kids for lunch. 

Bidding farewell to L&R (who were heading home via Exeter), the remaining party took to the water, hiring a motor launch to take a turn about the harbor.   We topped off the boat trip with a traditional Cornish cream tea at the Well House (built 1430) and had to admit our efforts were amateur when we only managed to consume a mere third of the clotted cream served to us.

Our final adventure of the day was a short hike to St. Catherine’s castle, which afforded more great views of both Fowey and Polruan.

We dined in style at The Ship Inn (relatively new construction, being built in 1570) – if you ever have a chance to try their Famous Fowey Fish pie, come hungry!  Much to our delight, we were serenaded by the St Pinnock brass band, who were playing a pop-up concert in the churchyard right outside the window.