The Fowey Hall Walk has been on my running wishlist for ages. With creek views, sheltered woodland paths, and 2 ferry rides, it was bound to be a good run.
Hall Walk may start at Fowey but the majority of the route takes place across the water, from Bodinnick to Polruan. It’s one of Cornwall’s most popular walking routes and given the unparalleled views, I can see why.
Dating back to the 16th Century, Fowey Hall Walk is believed to have originated from the Mohun family who lived in nearby Hall.
I discovered the Hall Walk during my last visit to Polruan and Lantic Bay. There were signs dotted around Polruan and I promptly placed it on my running hitlist. It also includes 2 ferry rides which is always bonus, in my view!
As Fowey Hall Walk is a looped route, it doesn’t matter where you choose to start. I opted for parking in a residential area in Fowey, and took the ferry over the water to Bodinnick.
If you’re unfamiliar with Fowey, Caffa Mill car park is right next to the ferry, and I’d recommend parking there. The Bodinnick ferry runs regularly, every 15 minutes or so, but times can vary depending on the season. You can find information on their website.
Heading out To Bodinnick
Starting the famous Fowey Hall Walk with a short trip on the water is just magical. Every time I’m on, near, or in the water, I’m reminded of how good for our wellbeing coastal life is. SUPs float ahead of me as I stand on the ferry, and a rib swans past. I couldn’t help but give them a wave!
From the vantage point of the Bodinnick Ferry, it’s possible to see Ferryside, Daphne du Maurier’s waterside home. And what a beaut it is too. I could easily see myself perched on the front, whiling away my time.
Once at Bodinnick, there’s an uphill start but it’s a chance to see the pretty houses lining the narrow road. Not forgetting of course, The Old Ferry Inn, whose menu looks most worthy of a future visit.
Starting the Hall Walk
Heading up the hill, there’s a sign on the right by a old cottage. This is the start of Hall Walk.
A tree lined path awaits me and given it’s a warm day, I’m relieved to be in the shade. The first landmark I come to is the well documented Q memorial. You can’t miss it!
The Q memorial commemorates Arthur Quiller-Couch, a well known local writer who lived in Fowey. He’s said to have been the inspiration for one of the characters in Wind in The Willows.
The Q memorial is in a fantastic spot. Situated on higher ground with only low level bushes, you can see both Polruan and Fowey. Unsurprisingly, it’s the first of many wonderful views. There’s an accessible path here as well, leading to Penleath Point. I didn’t take it on this occasion but would love a look another time.
From here, the path continues, and there are a few inclines. I’ve seen worse in my time and I have to say, I thought it would be hillier. I pass through a field and a kissing gate, and continue on the path which leads quite steeply down to Pont Pill.
Pont Pill to Polruan
Pont Pill is the smallest, sweetest spot. I can totally see why people choose to get away from it all and holiday here. With only a few houses on each side of the creek, it’s sleepy and secluded, and could easily be overlooked. I arrive at low tide but can still appreciate its beauty.
Hall Walk then turns back into woodland. I notice signs for Polruan along the way, leading in more than one direction, including out onto the road. My advice is to stick to the path. The short addition of the road leads back onto the path but there’s no need to take it.
Knowing Fowey Hall Walk is about 4 miles in total, I was surprised at how quickly I seemed to be approaching Polruan. It wasn’t long at all before I found myself on a path at the back of houses, leading to this coastal village.
From here, I have a little time before the Polruan ferry comes in. I think I just missed it!
I decide to have a wander around and enjoy Polruan in the sunshine. Plus, there’s more people here this time round, giving Polruan a different, livelier feel.
Heading back to Fowey
I didn’t have to wait long for the little ferry back to Fowey; it’s a very relaxing way to start and end a walk or run. Although when it comes to running, I find it hard to get going again after I’ve stopped for a while.
Getting off the Polruan ferry onto The Esplanade in Fowey, I’ve already planned to take the long route back to my car. When I last came to Fowey, I spied Game of Cones ice cream shop. Being a sucker for a shop with a great name, I was on a mission to have an ice cream to mark the end of my run.
I take my time getting there though, choosing to have a look around Fowey’s independent shops. It’s wonderful to see places come to life again. Fowey is simply thriving and I notice there are a few new additions to the High Street. I’d definitely recommend a visit to Fowey for a day or afternoon.
I finally reach Game of Cones in Fowey (it’s opposite Caffa Mill car park), and choose a rhubarb and custard ice cream. It’s delicious but it’s classed as a Lannister ice cream and I’m not sure how I feel about that 😂!
I can only say, it’s the perfect way to end Fowey Hall Walk. After months of running largely on familiar territory, I’m delighted to have discovered a new running route, and have another microadventure.
If you’re thinking of starting running, you may be interested my post, on how to start running which answers common running questions. It also contains a beginners running schedule to get you going.