There is a corner of Cornwall that has transformed the waiting of the bus into an experience to tell. We are in Fowey, a painter bathing town overlooking the sleeve channel, in southern England, a place that exudes history and maritime tradition. Here, along Lankelly Lane, there is a bus stop, Fowey Pretty, who does not just offer refuge with an incessant English rain, but which over time has turned into a real work of art, in constant evolution.
The most beautiful bus stop of the United Kingdom
For twenty years now, the small structure has undergone many and incredible transformations thanks to the creativity of the locals. It all started with Jane Tinsley, who decided to give her a new life after she had become the target of vandalism and anti -social behaviors.
Since then, each season has brought with it a new guise: a tea room, a regatta of yacht, a library, references to art (such as “The great wave of Kanagawa”, the famous woodcut of the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai) and even a tribute to the king of rock, Elvis Presley.
A point of reference for the community
Sarah Worne, the artist behind the last restyling, has been involved in the project since 2021 and every time he manages to surprise the community. “February is always a cold and melancholy month,” he says. “I wanted to give a little warmth to those who stop here waiting for the bus.” And so the last restyling was born, “Thyme to Stop”, a game of words that recalls the thyme and the concept of taking a break. The current decoration transforms the stop into a truly welcoming greenhouse, with many plants, both true and painted, which envelop the environment, enhancing it: from a simple bus stop to place permeated by a relaxing atmosphere.
In addition to being a waiting point for commuters, the Fowey stop has become a community symbol. “I always like to keep myself busy and do things that make people smile,” confesses Sarah. And his work does not go unnoticed: the stop even has a Facebook page with over 2,900 followers, where the images of the various transformations suffered over the years are shared.
Involving the community has always been a priority. “We launched a challenge to Fowey River Lions,” says Sarah, referring to a group of local activists. “For Easter they will work on a special project for the stop”. The idea is to keep tradition alive, giving space to new ideas and new artists.
What if this little wonder had sisters around the region? Sarah has repeatedly thought of decorating other stops, inspired by her car trips. “The problem is that you have to understand who I am,” he explains. “Fowey belongs to the city council, but for others I should do some more research. Having said that, I have already spotted some stops that would deserve a refresh!”.
Fowey: maritime and cultural center
The Fowey seaside center, among the most exclusive in Cornwall, is already a destination loved by tourists and enthusiasts, both of the sea and literature. In fact, we can mention Daphne du Maurier, who found inspiration between its streets (lived in the Menabilly area, promontory a couple of km from Foewy) for the famous novel “Rebecca, the first wife”. And again, we find references to the English town in the novels of the writer Arthur Quiller-Couch, where he is mentioned as “Troy Town”.
Now, among Fowey’s attractions, there is also our bus stop, which tells a story made of creativity and passion.
If you ever find yourself in these parts, stop to take a look. While not having, possibly, you need a bus, you may find out how much it is worth waiting for a few more minutes, just for the taste of admiring the legendary Fowey stop.
