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Golant

Quiet estuary village on the River Fowey

Golant is a small village on the west bank of the River Fowey, about 2 miles north of Fowey town. The village climbs steeply from its waterfront, where a quay and slipway provide access to the river. St Sampson’s Church, dating from the 15th century, stands at the top of the village with views over the estuary. The Fisherman’s Arms pub sits near the water’s edge and has a terrace overlooking the river. Kayaks and small boats can be launched from the quay.

The Fowey estuary is a natural harbour that runs several miles inland, and Golant’s position on the tidal stretch means the river views change constantly with the water level. The Saints Way long-distance path passes through the village on its route between Padstow and Fowey. Walking south along the river leads to Fowey in about 40 minutes, passing through National Trust woodland at Pont Pill - a tidal creek that’s particularly atmospheric at high water.

Holiday properties in Golant are mostly cottages and houses within the village, several with river views. The appeal is the combination of waterfront access and genuine quiet - Fowey and its restaurants, galleries, and ferries are close by, but Golant itself sees little through-traffic. The village has no shop, so provisions need to come from Fowey or Lostwithiel (about 3 miles north). The Hall Walk, a circular route taking in both sides of the estuary, starts from the Bodinnick ferry opposite Fowey.