44 Must-See Literary Landmarks in the United Kingdom

7. The Seaside Inspiration of Du Maurier's Cornwall

Our next stop takes us to the rugged coast of Cornwall, a land of jagged cliffs, misty moors, and turbulent seas that fueled the gothic imagination of Daphne du Maurier. Novels like Rebecca and Jamaica Inn are steeped in the mystery and drama of this atmospheric landscape, where smugglers once lurked and secrets lay buried in the sands. The charming town of Fowey, where du Maurier lived, celebrates her literary legacy with an annual Festival of Arts and Literature. Visitors can explore the infamous Jamaica Inn, a real-life smuggler’s haven turned museum, or wander the haunting ruins of Tintagel Castle, said to be the birthplace of King Arthur. With its untamed beauty and sense of timeless intrigue, Cornwall remains an enduring source of literary inspiration.