The Old Quay House Hotel

The Old Quay House Hotel, Fowey, Cornwall.


Rich in maritime history as far back as Henry IV, Fowey (pronounced ‘Foye’) is the jewel in the crown of Cornwall’s resurgent South Coast. Architect designed and comfortably chic, the Old Quay House is an historic, lovingly restored property overlooking the town’s attractive waterfront. 21st century styling has been cleverly combined with traditional architecture to create eleven, very different bedrooms that radiate quiet luxury and celebrate the stunning view. Pre and post drinks on the terrace are the perfect place to soak up estuary life as it unfolds before your eyes.


Caring hosts and stylish bedrooms spoil you all the way. A vibrant range of styles from ‘Cool ‘Island’ to New England feature an eclectic collection of personally chosen furnishings, goose down duvets, the best Egyptian cotton and uplifting views. All have strong, distinct personalities with seriously indulging bathrooms boasting proper power showers and luxury treats from the White Company. Muted colours and natural fabrics create a sensual harmony encouraging guests to indulge in their very own comfort zone. Whatever the occasion, expectations at the OQH are always exceeded and the thoughtful little touches remembered long after reality has kicked back in.

For a leisurely supper, not to mention breakfast, lunch or dinner, you'll find Q restaurant the place to eat
The restaurant is named after a local man, known for being a wonderful Sunday supper host. Sir Arthur Thomas Quiller-Couch was a famous writer and literary critic who lived much of his life in Fowey. He published under the pen name of Q, and his Troy Town novels were based on life in Fowey, although he's most famously remembered as the author of the Oxford Book of English Verse. If the weather's fine you can raise a glass to Arthur by enjoying a Q cocktail on the terrace, before indulging in some Fowey river oysters or local scallops from the creative menu by head chef Ashley Wright. You'll also have to try something from the wine list picked by Britain's youngest Master of Wine.

Whether that’s the popping candy in the desserts or diver caught Plaice, Ashley’s style is fun and modern with a classic twist. ‘I want people to enjoy themselves and have a few surprises. Rather than the same old, same old, this is something more memorable; a talking point over dinner,’ he quips. Since joining in September 2012, Ashley has completely revived The Old Quay House’s menu, with an emphasis on seasonal dishes, making the most of the bounty of local Cornish produce. Ashley says the move to Cornwall has already given him and his wife and two-year-old daughter and new baby girl a better quality of life.

The Old Quay House is absolutely a place for all seasons - wonderful for a long romantic weekend but with every creature comfort required for a longer stay. The Penthouse, with fab Estuary views, freestanding claw foot bath and polished wood floor, is something quite different and the perfect choice for discerning newly weds. For owner Jane Carson, attention to minute detail has been paramount throughout the building’s loving restoration from derelict boarding house to revitalised boutique hotel. Now the journey is complete, guests can feast on plump local seafood, stay in absolute style and awake to any number of care-free days out. Couples love exploring the stunning coastline hoping to spot a seal or basking shark one day, the next walking hand in hand along empty beaches.

Fowey is a town where the roads were designed long before the motor car was invented. A thoroughbred literary connection comes courtesy of Daphne du Maurier and there is a picturesque harbour reached via fascinating winding streets well worth exploring. Life here is relaxed. With it’s bobbing sailboats and endearing seaside charm Fowey encapsulates the very best of old Cornwall. The Eden Project, National Maritime Museum and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are all within close reach as are Jamie Oliver’s ‘Fifteen’ at Watergate Bay and Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant in Padstow. Whatever you get up to, Jane and her diligent team will make sure you leave feeling completely refreshed.


Accolades include 2008/09 Cornish Small Hotel of the Year & South West Tourism Awards Finalist • 2009 Good Food Guide Recommended • Hardens Remy Restaurant Award • Alastair Sawday Recommended• Trenchermans Guide •Good Hotel Guide Cesar Award, Best Hotel in Cornwall 2013.