Padstow is a picturesque fishing port situated on the north coast of Cornwall, England. Renowned for its idyllic harbor, narrow streets, and traditional Cornish architecture, the town has become a popular tourist destination. Padstow’s harbor serves as a focal point for various activities, from fishing trips to pleasure cruises, allowing visitors to explore the stunning Cornish coastline and its marine life.
The town is also recognized for its thriving culinary scene, with several esteemed seafood restaurants, including those owned by celebrity chef Rick Stein. Visitors can indulge in local delicacies such as Cornish pasties and fresh seafood, while enjoying the charming ambience of the town’s numerous pubs and eateries.
Padstow serves as a gateway to the scenic Camel Trail, a walking and cycling path that follows the River Camel and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The trail stretches for 18 miles from Padstow to Wenfordbridge, passing through Wadebridge and Bodmin along the way. Additionally, the nearby beaches of Trevone, Harlyn, and Constantine Bay provide opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant culinary offerings, and spectacular natural surroundings, Padstow remains a captivating destination for travelers seeking to experience the charm and beauty of the Cornish coast.
Google map of Padstow
The Best Places to Visit in Padstow
Padstow Harbour
Padstow Harbour is a picturesque, working fishing port situated on the Camel Estuary in North Cornwall. The harbor is the heart of the charming town of Padstow, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With a variety of fishing boats, leisure craft, and pleasure cruises, the harbor serves both commercial and recreational purposes. Padstow Harbour is also home to the renowned National Lobster Hatchery, which promotes sustainable fisheries through conservation and education initiatives.
Official website: https://padstow-harbour.co.uk Harbour Commission
Google map 4.6/5
National Lobster Hatchery
National Lobster Hatchery is a pioneering marine conservation center located in Padstow, Cornwall. Focused on protecting the European lobster population, the hatchery employs sustainable aquaculture techniques to rear juvenile lobsters before releasing them into the wild. The facility also serves as an educational resource for the public, offering guided tours and interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the importance of sustainable fisheries and marine ecosystems.
Official website: http://nationallobsterhatchery.co.uk
Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant
Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant is a celebrated dining establishment in Padstow, Cornwall, owned by the renowned British chef, Rick Stein. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing the freshest, locally-caught seafood to create an array of exquisite dishes, reflecting Stein’s passion for culinary excellence. With stunning views of the Camel Estuary, the elegant setting and exceptional service make Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
Google map The Seafood Restaurant 4.5/5
Google map Stein’s Fish & Chips 3.9/5
Google map
South West Coast Path
South West Coast Path is an extensive, 630-mile-long National Trail that stretches from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, passing through the picturesque coastal towns of Cornwall, including Padstow. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and photography. Rich in history and heritage, the South West Coast Path attracts walkers of all skill levels who are drawn to its spectacular scenery and unique cultural experiences.
Padstow to Stepper Point Walk
Padstow to Stepper Point Walk (3.2 miles each way) is a scenic coastal walk that begins in the bustling harbor town of Padstow and leads to the dramatic headland of Stepper Point. The walk, which forms part of the South West Coast Path, offers spectacular views of the Camel Estuary, Trevose Head, and the Atlantic Ocean. Along the route, walkers can enjoy a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as the opportunity to spot marine wildlife. This picturesque walk is suitable for all ages and abilities, providing a rewarding and memorable experience for visitors.
Google map Stepper Point 4.8/5
Google map start of walk in Padstow Harbour
St George’s Cove
St George’s Cove is a sandy beach offering scenic views of the Camel Estuary and surrounding countryside. Accessible via a short 0.7 mile walk north from Padstow, it’s a popular spot for beachgoers seeking a quieter alternative to larger beaches. The cove’s gentle tides and sheltered location make it ideal for swimming and relaxing, though swimming is recommended only at high tide. St George’s Cove is part of the South West Coast Path, offering additional walking opportunities.
Google map 4.8/5
Harbour Cove
Harbour Cove is a wide, sandy beach located along the Camel Estuary near Padstow, Cornwall. Sheltered from the Atlantic swell, it offers calm waters suitable for swimming, paddling, and other water activities. The beach is part of the South West Coast Path, providing walkers with stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Harbour Cove is dog-friendly year-round, making it an ideal destination for families and their pets to enjoy together.
Google map 4.8/5
Stepper Point
Stepper Point is a dramatic headland situated on the western side of the Camel Estuary, offering panoramic views of the North Cornwall coastline. A popular destination for walkers, the point is accessible via the South West Coast Path and features the iconic Daymark Tower, a 19th-century navigation aid. Stepper Point is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as the area is home to various seabirds, seals, and other marine species.
Google map Stepper Point 4.8/5
Ferry to Rock
Ferry to Rock is a convenient water-based transportation service that connects Padstow to the village of Rock, located on the eastern side of the Camel Estuary. The ferry operates daily throughout the year, with increased frequency during the summer months. Passengers enjoy a scenic ride across the estuary, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and take in the picturesque views of both the Padstow and Rock shorelines.
Google map Ferry terminal in Padstow 4.6/5
Google map Ferry terminal in Rock 4.6/5
Rock Beach
Rock Beach, situated on the eastern shore of the Camel Estuary opposite Padstow, is a long, sandy beach popular with families and watersports enthusiasts. The beach’s calm waters and gentle slopes make it ideal for activities such as sailing, water skiing, and paddleboarding. With its fine sand, Rock Beach is also perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles. During low tide, visitors can explore the numerous rock pools teeming with marine life.
Google map 4.8/5
Rock to Polzeath Coast Walk
Rock to Polzeath Coast Walk is a scenic coastal path that stretches between the village of Rock and the popular surfing destination of Polzeath in North Cornwall. The walk, which is part of the South West Coast Path, offers stunning views of the Camel Estuary, Daymer Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Along the route, walkers can enjoy diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely coastal stroll. The walk is 3.1 miles each way (6.2 miles total) taking just under 3 hours total.
Google map Rock Quarry Car Park start of coastal walk
Google map Daymer Bay Beach 4.7/5
Google map Polzeath Beach 4.7/5
Polzeath Beach
Polzeath Beach is a popular, family-friendly beach located on the North Cornwall coast. Renowned for its consistent surf and expansive golden sands, it attracts surfers, bodyboarders, and sunbathers alike. The beach offers excellent facilities, including parking, shops, cafes, and surf schools, catering to a wide range of visitors. Lifeguards patrol Polzeath Beach during the summer months, ensuring a safe environment for swimming and other water-based activities.
Google map Polzeath Beach 4.7/5
St. Enodoc Church
St. Enodoc Church is a historic, 12th-century church nestled among sand dunes on the eastern side of the Camel Estuary, close to Daymer Bay. This Grade I-listed building is dedicated to Saint Enodoc, a 6th-century hermit and Cornish patron saint. Partially buried by sand over the centuries, the church was restored in the 19th century and now stands as a unique and picturesque landmark. It is best known as the final resting place of the celebrated British poet, Sir John Betjeman.
Google map 4.8/5
The Rumps
The Rumps is a striking, twin-headland peninsula located near Polzeath on the North Cornwall coast. Formed from steep, volcanic cliffs, The Rumps is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and walkers. The area is also known for its Iron Age cliff fort, which adds a touch of historical intrigue. Accessible via the South West Coast Path, The Rumps offers breathtaking views and a unique coastal experience.
Google map 4.9/5
The Camel Trail
The Camel Trail is a popular, multi-use recreational path that follows a disused railway line from Padstow to Wenford Bridge, passing through Wadebridge and Bodmin. Covering approximately 18 miles, the trail offers a flat, traffic-free route suitable for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders of all ages and abilities. The trail provides a unique opportunity to explore Cornwall’s diverse landscapes, from the scenic estuary and wooded valleys to the historic Bodmin Moor.
Google map start of trail south of Padstow 4.7/5
Google map Camel Trail Wadebridge 4.7/5
Google map Camel Trail car park in Bodmin
Camel Valley Vineyard
Camel Valley Vineyard is an award-winning, family-owned winery situated in the picturesque Camel Valley near Bodmin, Cornwall. Established in 1989, the vineyard has gained international recognition for producing high-quality English wines, including sparkling, white, and rosé varieties. Visitors to the vineyard can enjoy guided tours, wine tastings, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The on-site shop offers the opportunity to purchase the vineyard’s products as a memento of the experience.
Official website: https://www.camelvalley.com
Google map 4.7/5
Trevone Beach
Trevone Beach is a beautiful, sandy bay located near Padstow on the North Cornwall coast. The beach is popular with families, offering safe swimming conditions and lifeguard patrols during the summer months. Trevone Beach features a unique blowhole and a separate rocky beach, known as Newtrain Bay, which is perfect for rockpooling and exploring the area’s diverse marine life. Amenities at the beach include parking, a café, and toilet facilities.
Google map 4.8/5
Harlyn Bay to Trevose Head Lighthouse Walk
Harlyn Bay to Trevose Head Lighthouse Walk is a captivating coastal walk that starts at the beautiful Harlyn Bay and leads to the striking Trevose Head Lighthouse on the North Cornwall coast. This route, which forms part of the South West Coast Path, offers awe-inspiring views of the rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, walkers can encounter diverse flora and fauna, as well as opportunities to spot seabirds and marine life. The walk is suitable for a range of ages and fitness levels, making it an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for all who embark on the journey.
Google map Harlyn Bay Beach 4.7/5
Google map Long Cove Beach 4.8/5
Google map Trevose Head Lighthouse 4.7/5
Harlyn Bay
Harlyn Bay is a spacious, crescent-shaped beach situated on the North Cornwall coast, approximately 3 miles west of Padstow. The beach is renowned for its golden sands, clear waters, and excellent surf conditions, attracting surfers, bodyboarders, and families alike. Lifeguards are present during the summer season, ensuring a safe environment for visitors. Harlyn Bay’s location within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty makes it a picturesque destination for coastal walks and nature exploration.
Google map Harlyn Bay Beach 4.7/5
Mother Ivy’s Bay (Long Cove Beach)
Mother Ivy’s Bay, also known as Long Cove Beach, is a secluded, unspoiled sandy cove located near Padstow on the North Cornwall coast. Accessible via the South West Coast Path, the beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and boasts crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting. The bay’s remote location ensures a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking solitude and tranquility away from the busier tourist spots.
Google map Long Cove Beach 4.8/5
Google map Trevose Headland National Trust Car Park (nearest parking) 4.6/5
Trevose Head Lighthouse
Trevose Head Lighthouse is a prominent, operational lighthouse situated on the rugged Trevose Head, near Padstow on the North Cornwall coast. Established in 1847, the lighthouse has guided mariners through treacherous waters for over a century. The striking white tower and surrounding coastal scenery make the lighthouse a popular destination for photographers and walkers exploring the South West Coast Path. Although not open for public tours, the lighthouse’s grounds offer panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Google map Trevose Head Lighthouse 4.7/5
Google map National Trust car park (nearest) 4.8/5
Google map Trevose Headland National Trust Car Park (alternative parking)
Constantine Bay
Constantine Bay is a wide, sandy beach located near Padstow on the North Cornwall coast. Known for its excellent surf conditions and rock pools, the beach attracts surfers, bodyboarders, and families in search of a day out by the sea. The bay is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing a stunning backdrop for coastal walks and nature exploration. Facilities at Constantine Bay include a small car park and seasonal lifeguard patrols.
Google map Constantine Bay Beach 4.9/5
Google map Treyarnon Bay Beach 4.8/5 (nearby, 5 minute walk)
Porthcothan Bay
Porthcothan Bay is a picturesque, sheltered cove situated on the North Cornwall coast, between Padstow and Newquay. The beach features golden sands, clear waters, and dramatic cliffs, making it a popular destination for families, swimmers, and walkers. At low tide, numerous rock pools are revealed, teeming with marine life and offering ample opportunities for exploration. Porthcothan Bay provides parking, toilet facilities, and seasonal lifeguard cover, ensuring a comfortable and safe visit for all.
Google map Porthcothan Beach 4.9/5
Google map Porthcothan Bay car park
Bedruthan Steps
Bedruthan Steps is a spectacular coastal landscape located on the North Cornwall coast, featuring towering sea stacks and a dramatic cliff-top view. The beach, accessible by a steep staircase, offers a secluded and scenic escape with its golden sands and fascinating rock formations. Managed by the National Trust, the area is popular for walking and photography, as it forms part of the South West Coast Path. Visitors can also enjoy a nearby café and National Trust shop, providing refreshments and information about the site’s history and geology.
Google map
Prideaux Place
Prideaux Place is a magnificent, Elizabethan manor house situated in Padstow, Cornwall. Built in 1592, the house has been the family home of the Prideaux-Brune family for over 400 years. With its beautiful gardens, deer park, and stunning views of the Camel Estuary, Prideaux Place is a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse into the history and heritage of the region. The house offers guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the stunning architecture, period furnishings, and extensive art collection.
Official website: https://prideauxplace.co.uk
Google map 4.6/5
Port Isaac
Port Isaac is a picturesque, historic fishing village nestled along the North Cornwall coast. With its narrow, winding streets, whitewashed cottages, and charming harbor, Port Isaac has retained much of its original character and charm. The village gained fame as the filming location for the popular British television series “Doc Martin,” attracting fans from around the world. Port Isaac offers a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely day trip.
Google map Port Isaac Harbour 4.6/5
Google map classic viewpoint 4.9/5
Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle is a dramatic, cliff-top ruin located on the North Cornwall coast, steeped in history and myth. Believed to be the birthplace of the legendary King Arthur, the castle has captivated the imagination of visitors for centuries. Managed by English Heritage, the site features a modern footbridge that connects the mainland to the castle’s island, allowing for a more accessible exploration of the ruins. Visitors can delve into the rich history, myths, and legends surrounding Tintagel Castle while taking in the stunning coastal views.
Official website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/
Google map 4.6/5
Boscastle
Boscastle is a quaint, historic harbor village situated on the North Cornwall coast, known for its picturesque landscape and charming atmosphere. Nestled within a steep-sided valley, the village features a natural harbor protected by two stone harbor walls. Boscastle is an ideal destination for walkers, as it offers access to the South West Coast Path, which leads to stunning coastal views and scenic countryside. Visitors can also explore the Boscastle Witchcraft Museum, local shops, and traditional pubs.
Useful website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
Google map Boscastle Harbour 4.8/5
Google map Boscastle car park
Bude
Bude is a vibrant, seaside town located on the North Cornwall coast, renowned for its sandy beaches, excellent surf conditions, and stunning coastal scenery. Popular with families and surfers alike, Bude offers a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, surfing, and coastal walking. The town is home to several beaches, such as Summerleaze and Crooklets, which provide lifeguard patrols during the summer months. Bude also boasts a historic sea pool, a unique feature that attracts visitors seeking a safe, sheltered swimming experience.