Experience the best of a holiday in Cornwall with a trip to Padstow. Explore the seven bays from Padstow to Watergate Bay, stroll through the charming market town of Wadebridge, and visit Rock from Port Isaac.
This picturesque town is beautiful all year round, offering breathtaking views in the autumn as well as during summer and the festive season.
Padstow is a town located in the north coast of Cornwall, England. It is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque harbor, historic buildings, and seafood. The town is also the starting point of the Camel Trail, a scenic walking and cycling path that follows the Camel Estuary.
Padstow has a rich history and cultural heritage, with several local events and festivals taking place throughout the year, such as the famous May Day celebrations.
Why is Padstow famous?
Padstow is famous for several reasons, including:
- Picturesque harbor: Padstow has a charming harbor that is surrounded by colorful buildings and is a popular spot for tourists.
- Seafood: Padstow is well known for its excellent seafood restaurants and is considered a foodie’s paradise.
- Scenic coastal walks: The town is located on the north coast of Cornwall and offers stunning coastal walks along the Camel Estuary and along the South West Coast Path.
- Historic buildings: Padstow has a rich history and cultural heritage, and there are several historic buildings in the town, including St Petroc’s Church, which dates back to the 13th century.
- Festivals and events: Padstow is home to several local festivals and events, including the famous May Day celebrations, which are held every year and feature traditional dances and music.
These are some of the reasons why Padstow is famous and a popular tourist destination.
Where to stay in Padstow?
Padstow is one of the top places to stay in Cornwall. Here is a list of 10 highly-rated hotels in Padstow, Cornwall, UK:
- The Old Custom House
- The Metropole Hotel
- The Tolcarne Inn
- The St Enodoc Hotel
- The Seafood Restaurant with Rooms
- The Treglos Hotel
- The Headland Hotel
- The St Petroc’s Hotel
- The Hotel Tresanton
- The Carlyon Bay Hotel
These hotels offer a range of accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury boutique hotels. Many of them are located in the heart of Padstow and offer easy access to the town’s popular attractions, including its harbor, shops, restaurants, and beaches. When choosing a hotel in Padstow, consider factors such as location, facilities, and price to find the one that best fits your needs.
Where is Padstow located?
Padstow is a small town located in North Cornwall, England. It is situated on the northwest coast of Cornwall, on the estuary of the River Camel, and is approximately 20 miles (32 km) northwest of Bodmin and 30 miles (48 km) northeast of Newquay. Padstow is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque harbor, excellent seafood restaurants, and charming, narrow streets lined with shops, pubs, and cafes. It is easily accessible by road and is a short drive from the A30, the main road that runs through Cornwall. The nearest train station is located in Bodmin, from where there are regular buses to Padstow.
Padstow – car hire:
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Where is Padstow near?
Padstow is near several other popular tourist destinations in the area, including:
- Newquay – approximately 30 miles (48 km) to the southwest, known for its surf culture and sandy beaches.
- St. Ives – approximately 20 miles (32 km) to the south, known for its artistic heritage and picturesque harbor.
- Bodmin – approximately 20 miles (32 km) to the southeast, known for its historic attractions, such as Bodmin Moor and Bodmin Jail.
- Rock – approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) to the northeast, known for its long sandy beach and water sports.
- Port Isaac – approximately 8 miles (13 km) to the northwest, known for its narrow, winding streets, historic harbor, and stunning coastal scenery.
Padstow is situated on the coast, near the River Camel estuary, and is surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery and rolling countryside, making it an ideal base for exploring the north Cornwall coast and beyond.
Can you drive into Padstow?
Yes, you can drive into Padstow. The town is located in North Cornwall and is easily accessible by car from the A30. There is ample parking available in the town, including several pay and display car parks, as well as some street parking. However, during the peak tourist season, parking in the town can be difficult, and it is recommended to arrive early or park in one of the out-of-town car parks and walk into the town. It is also important to be aware of the narrow streets and one-way systems in the town center, as well as any parking restrictions.
Car parks in Padstow
Padstow has several car parks available for visitors, including:
- Padstow Harbour Car Park: This is the main car park in the town and is located near the harbor. It is a large car park with plenty of spaces, and is open all year round.
- The Warren Car Park: This car park is located on the outskirts of Padstow and is a short walk from the town center. It is a large car park with a mix of free and paid spaces.
- New Street Car Park: This car park is located in the center of Padstow and is a short walk from the harbor. It is a smaller car park with limited spaces, and is mostly used by residents.
- The Rumps Car Park: This car park is located on the coast near Padstow and is popular with visitors who want to explore the nearby coastal path. It is a small car park with limited spaces and is open all year round.
Some of the car parks may get busy during peak tourist season, so it is advisable to arrive early to secure a parking space.
Does Padstow have a beach?
Yes, Padstow has several beaches in the area. The most popular beach in Padstow is Treyarnon Bay, which is located just a few miles from the town center. Treyarnon Bay is a sandy beach with clear water and is popular for swimming, surfing, and other water sports. There are also several other smaller beaches in the area, such as Constantine Bay, Booby’s Bay, and Hawker’s Cove, which are all worth visiting if you’re in the area. Additionally, the nearby town of Rock is home to a popular beach that is popular for sailing and water sports.
How far is Padstow from the beach?
The distance from Padstow to the nearest beach, Treyarnon Bay, is approximately 3 miles (5 km). The journey by car takes around 10 minutes, while the walk takes around 40 minutes. There are also several other beaches in the area, such as Constantine Bay and Booby’s Bay, which are both located a short drive from Padstow. If you’re staying in Padstow, you can easily visit the beaches for a day trip or take a scenic coastal walk along the South West Coast Path.
Unusual things to do in Padstow
While there are many traditional tourist activities to enjoy in Padstow, there are also a few more unusual things to see and do in the area:
- Visit the Padstow Museum – this small museum, located in the town center, provides a fascinating insight into the history of Padstow and the surrounding area, including its maritime heritage and the life of its residents over the centuries.
- Take a Food Tour – Padstow is renowned for its excellent seafood restaurants and food culture, and there are several food tours available, offering the chance to taste some of the local specialties and learn about the town’s food heritage.
- Visit the Padstow Lifeboat Station – this historic lifeboat station, located at the harbor, is home to the Padstow lifeboat and provides a fascinating glimpse into the work of the RNLI and the important role of the lifeboat in this coastal community.
- Go seal watching – the nearby coast is home to a colony of seals and there are several operators offering guided trips to see the seals and learn about their habitat and behavior.
- Take a scenic horse ride – there are several stables in the area offering horse rides along the coast and through the surrounding countryside, providing a unique way to explore the area.
These are just a few of the more unusual activities to enjoy in Padstow. Whether you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience or just want to try something different during your visit, there is plenty to see and do in this charming town.
Padstow Harbour
Padstow Harbour is a historic fishing port located in North Cornwall. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque harbor, excellent seafood restaurants, and charming, narrow streets lined with shops, pubs, and cafes.
The harbor is home to a thriving fishing fleet, and visitors can watch the boats come and go, unloading their catch and selling fresh seafood to the local restaurants. The harbor is also a popular spot for boat trips, with several operators offering trips along the River Camel, along the coast, or to see the local wildlife.
Padstow Harbour is surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery and there are several coastal walks in the area, including the South West Coast Path. The harbor is also a popular starting point for the Camel Trail, a scenic cycle path that runs along the Camel Estuary.
Whether you’re looking to try some of the local seafood, take a boat trip, or enjoy a scenic walk, Padstow Harbour is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting North Cornwall.
Padstow restaurants
Padstow is renowned for its excellent seafood restaurants, making it a popular destination for foodies. Some of the most famous and popular restaurants in Padstow include:
- Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant – owned by the famous chef Rick Stein, this restaurant serves a range of seafood dishes, including local specialties such as Cornish crab and Padstow lobster.
- Paul Ainsworth at No. 6 – this restaurant, owned by chef Paul Ainsworth, serves a range of contemporary dishes using local ingredients, including seafood and meats from local farms.
- Rojano’s in the Square – this restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine, with a focus on handmade pasta and fresh seafood.
- St Petroc’s Bistro – this bistro serves a range of contemporary dishes, including seafood and meats from local producers.
- The Seafood Restaurant – this restaurant, also owned by Rick Stein, serves a range of seafood dishes, including local specialties and classic fish and chips.
These are just a few of the many excellent restaurants in Padstow. Whether you’re looking for seafood, contemporary cuisine, or traditional bistro fare, there is something to suit every taste and budget in Padstow.
Padstow museum
The Padstow Museum is a local museum located in the town of Padstow, Cornwall, England. It is dedicated to the history of Padstow and the surrounding area, and provides a fascinating insight into the town’s past. Here are some of the things you can expect to see at the Padstow Museum:
- Local history: The museum showcases the history of Padstow from its earliest days as a fishing village to its development as a popular tourist destination. Visitors can learn about the town’s fishing heritage, its involvement in the local tin-mining industry, and its connection to the famous seafarer Sir John Killigrew.
- Artifacts and exhibitions: The museum displays a range of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia related to the history of Padstow and the surrounding area. Exhibits include old maps, documents, fishing equipment, and local costume.
- Interactive displays: The museum features a number of interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the history of Padstow in a fun and engaging way. These displays include a working model of a local fishing vessel and a virtual tour of the town in the 19th century.
- Gift shop: The museum has a gift shop that sells a range of souvenirs and local products, including books, postcards, and prints.
The Padstow Museum is a small but informative museum that provides an interesting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. If you’re interested in the history of Padstow and the surrounding area, it is definitely worth a visit.
Fishing Padstow
Padstow is well known for its fishing heritage and is a popular destination for anglers and seafood enthusiasts. Here are some of the things you can expect if you’re interested in fishing in Padstow:
- Fishing trips: There are several local fishing boats that offer fishing trips from Padstow Harbor. These trips are a great way to experience the local waters and try your hand at catching some of the local seafood, including mackerel, bass, and plaice.
- Charter boats: There are also a number of charter boats available for hire, which can be a great option for larger groups or those who want a more tailored fishing experience.
- Sea fishing: Padstow is located on the North Coast of Cornwall and offers great opportunities for sea fishing. There are several popular fishing spots in the local area, including the Camel Estuary, the Camel Trail, and the surrounding bays and cliffs.
- Coarse fishing: There are also a number of rivers and lakes in the local area that offer good opportunities for coarse fishing, including the River Camel and the Bowood Lakes.
If you’re interested in fishing in Padstow, it’s always a good idea to check local regulations and obtain any necessary licenses or permits. There are also a number of local fishing shops and tackle shops in the town where you can purchase fishing equipment, bait, and advice.
How long is the Padstow to Rock ferry?
The Padstow to Rock ferry is a seasonal ferry service that operates between Padstow and the nearby village of Rock. The length of the ferry journey is approximately 5 minutes, depending on the conditions on the river. The ferry operates from May to September and provides a convenient and scenic way to travel between the two locations, allowing visitors to avoid the busy roads and enjoy the stunning scenery along the Camel Estuary. It is important to check the ferry timetable in advance, as the ferry service may be affected by weather conditions or other factors.
Which is better Padstow or St Ives?
Both cornish destinations have their own unique charms and attractions.
Padstow is a historic fishing port with a charming harbor, excellent seafood restaurants, and beautiful coastal walks. It is also known for its festivals and events, such as the May Day celebrations.
St Ives, on the other hand, is a bustling seaside town with a vibrant arts scene, a stunning beach, and a historic town center. It is known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and the Tate St Ives art gallery.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal interests and what you are looking for in a holiday destination in Cornwall.
Which is better Padstow or Port Isaac?
Both Padstow and Port Isaac are charming destinations with their own unique attractions, and the best choice depends on your personal interests and what you are looking for in a holiday destination.
Padstow is a historic fishing port with a charming harbor, excellent seafood restaurants, and beautiful coastal walks. It is also known for its festivals and events, such as the May Day celebrations.
Port Isaac, on the other hand, is a small, picturesque fishing village with narrow streets, historic cottages, and a stunning natural harbor. It is known for its quiet, relaxed atmosphere and its association with the popular TV show “Doc Martin.”
If you’re interested in history, culture, and good food, Padstow may be the better choice. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic village with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Port Isaac may be the better choice. Ultimately, both destinations are worth visiting and offer unique experiences.
Does Padstow have a market?
Yes, Padstow has a weekly market that takes place on a Friday. The market is held in the town center and offers a range of local produce, including fresh seafood, local cheeses, baked goods, and more. It is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike and provides a great opportunity to sample some of the local specialties and meet the local producers. The market is a lively and colorful event and is an enjoyable way to experience the local culture and food scene in Padstow
Padstow tourist information
Padstow is a popular tourist destination located in North Cornwall, England. It is known for its picturesque harbor, excellent seafood restaurants, and charming, narrow streets lined with shops, pubs, and cafes. Here is some tourist information that may be useful when visiting Padstow:
- How to get there: Padstow is easily accessible by road and is a short drive from the A30, the main road that runs through Cornwall. The nearest train station is located in Bodmin, from where there are regular buses to Padstow.
- What to see and do: There are many attractions and activities to enjoy in Padstow, including visiting the harbor, taking a food tour, visiting the Padstow Museum, or exploring the surrounding coastline.
- Where to eat: Padstow is renowned for its seafood restaurants, and there are many excellent options to choose from, including Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant, Paul Ainsworth at No. 6, and The Seafood Restaurant.
- Where to stay: There is a wide range of accommodation options available in Padstow, including hotels, guesthouses, self-catering cottages, and camping and caravan sites.
- Useful information: Padstow has a weekly market that takes place on a Friday and is a good place to purchase local produce. There are also several shops and grocery stores in the town where you can buy supplies. The tourist information center, located near the harbor, can provide additional information and advice on things to see and do in the area.
This is just a general overview of some of the tourist information for Padstow. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, Padstow is a charming and picturesque town that offers something for everyone.
Outdoor activities near Padstow
Padstow is located in a beautiful part of North Cornwall and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy in the area. Some of the most popular outdoor activities near Padstow include:
- Coastal walks – the South West Coast Path runs through Padstow, offering stunning coastal scenery and scenic walks.
- Surfing – the nearby beaches, such as Treyarnon Bay and Constantine Bay, are popular spots for surfing, and there are several surf schools in the area offering lessons and equipment rental.
- Fishing – Padstow is a historic fishing port and there are several fishing trips available, offering the chance to try your hand at sea fishing or crabbing.
- Kayaking and Stand-up Paddleboarding – the Camel Estuary is a great place for kayaking and paddleboarding, with several operators offering equipment rental and guided trips.
- Golf – there are several golf courses in the area, including Trevose Golf and Country Club, which is located just a short drive from Padstow.
- Cycling – the Camel Trail, a scenic, traffic-free cycle path, runs from Padstow to Wenford Bridge, offering a great way to explore the area by bike.
Whether you’re interested in water sports, fishing, golf, or just enjoying the scenic countryside, there is something for everyone near Padstow.
Is Padstow worth a visit?
Yes, Padstow is definitely worth a visit. In fact, it’s one of the most visited destinations in Cornwall. The town offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a popular destination for tourists. With its charming harbor, historic buildings, and scenic coastal walks, there is plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages.
Additionally, Padstow is known for its excellent seafood restaurants, making it a foodie’s paradise. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or good food, Padstow has something to offer.
Best places near Padstow to visit
Padstow is a picturesque fishing port located in Cornwall, England, and there are many nearby attractions that are definitely worth a visit. Here are 10 of the best places to check out:
- The Camel Trail: This is a beautiful trail that runs along the Camel Estuary and offers great opportunities for walking, cycling, and birdwatching.
- Rock: This is a popular seaside resort with a sandy beach, a lively harbor, and a wide range of water sports.
- Port Isaac: This is a picturesque fishing village that is famous for its narrow streets and vibrant community.
- Tintagel Castle: This legendary castle is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur and offers breathtaking coastal views and historic ruins.
- The Eden Project: This unique attraction showcases the relationship between plants, people, and the planet.
- St Ives: This charming seaside town is famous for its beaches, galleries, and seafood restaurants.
- Newquay: This is a lively surf town that is home to several great beaches, lively bars, and surf schools.
- The Lost Gardens of Heligan: This is a restored garden set within a 200-acre estate and is home to a variety of plants and wildlife.
- Land’s End: This is the westernmost point of mainland Britain and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- The Minack Theatre: This open-air theater is carved into the cliffs and offers panoramic views of the ocean.
These are just a few of the many great places near Padstow that are well worth a visit.
