FOWEY GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Clifftop Silence and a White Daymark: A 2.5‑Hour Guided Circuit from Fowey to Gribbin Head
A guided 2.5‑hour circular walk on the South West Coast Path from Fowey, with literary ties to Daphne du Maurier and an optional climb of the Gribbin Head daymark tower when open.
Clifftop Silence and a White Daymark: A 2.5‑Hour Guided Circuit from Fowey to Gribbin Head.
This 2.5‑hour circular walk out of Fowey follows a section of the South West Coast Path, rising and falling over clifftops past rocky coves and sandy beaches. Guides weave in Daphne du Maurier connections while you look for seabirds and seals; when National Trust volunteers open the white Gribbin Head daymark tower you can add an optional climb to the route.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Clifftop walking with wide sea views
A compact 3.5‑mile circuit takes you along the South West Coast Path where the route gently rises over clifftops and passes rocky coves and sandy beaches, offering consistent coastal panoramas.
Daphne du Maurier’s Cornwall
The walk visits Polridmouth Cove — the inspiration for Rebecca’s cove — and the guide highlights literary connections that thread through the coastal landscape.
The Gribbin Head daymark tower (optional climb)
The distinctive daymark is visible for miles; when the National Trust opens it (typically summer Sundays, staffed by volunteers) the group can optionally climb the tower — tower entry is included when it is open.
What the day feels like
What the walk feels like
The outing is a friendly, question‑encouraged guided circuit: a 2.5‑hour, 3.5‑mile loop that moves steadily along the South West Coast Path, up and down gentle ascents over cliff tops, past rocky coves and the exquisite Polridmouth Cove, with frequent stops to take in sea views, spot wildlife and talk about local stories. On days when the daymark is staffed, the optional tower climb punctuates the route.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this walk
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Clothing for the weather; sturdy footwear suitable for rough terrain and sloping ground; at least 1 litre of water; a rucksack or suitable carrier for your gear; camera or phone.
When the National Trust opens the daymark, the cost of tower entry is included in the walk price for those who climb.
Meeting point is Coombe Farm National Trust car park (Prickly Post Lane, PL23 1HW). Parking is free but limited; if the NT car park is full consider parking in Fowey and returning by bus or taxi. Buses 24 and 25 stop at East Lodge (a 10‑minute walk to the start); nearest train station is Par.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the walk?
The guided circuit lasts about 2.5 hours and covers roughly 3.5 miles.
Where do we meet and is there parking?
Meet at Coombe Farm National Trust car park, Prickly Post Lane, Fowey PL23 1HW. Parking is free but limited; allow plenty of time to find a space, or park in Fowey and bus or taxi back if the NT car park is full.
Can I climb the Gribbin Head tower?
You can climb the daymark tower only when it is open and manned by National Trust volunteers (typically summer Sundays); entry cost is included when it is open. Access is subject to availability.
Are there any discounts?
There is a 10% discount for guests arriving by public transport using code GOODJOURNEY (bring proof of travel). PARD CARD holders can use PARDCARD code for a discount for the card holder plus their group, up to the maximum advertised group; bring your card to the tour or the booking will be invalid.
What should I wear and carry?
Wear clothing suited to the weather and footwear for rough, sloping ground; bring at least 1 litre of water, a rucksack or carrier for your kit, and a camera or phone.
What if only one person books?
The tour will run even if only a single participant is booked; maximum group size is eight people.