Are you planning a trip to the charming harbour town of Padstow in Cornwall, England? If so, you’re in for a treat! This picturesque town, nestled in the Camel Estuary on the North Cornwall coast, is bursting with history, culture, and natural beauty. From sandy beaches to historic sites, there’s something for everyone in Padstow.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll take you through the 15 best things to do in Padstow, offering tips, suggestions, and insider information to make the most of your visit. So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let’s dive into the wonders of Padstow!
Padstow: A Brief Overview
Before we jump into the list of activities, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich history and unique charm of Padstow.
Padstow’s History: Once a bustling trading port and hub of the pilchard industry, Padstow has transformed into a popular tourist destination while retaining its maritime roots.
Geography and Landscape: Situated on the Camel Estuary, Padstow boasts sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush countryside, offering a perfect blend of coastal and rural landscapes.
Sights and Sounds: From the bustling Padstow Harbour to the serene St George’s Cove, the town is brimming with attractions that will capture your heart.
Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Padstow
1. Explore Padstow Harbour
- Take a leisurely stroll along the quaysides, where you’ll find galleries, ice cream parlours, restaurants, and quirky shops.
- Don’t miss the chance to hop on a boat trip or ferry ride over the estuary for stunning views of the town.
- Visit the outer dock, built in 1910, to witness the history of Padstow’s fishing industry.
2. Discover Prideaux Place
- Step back in time at Prideaux Place, a historic mansion with Elizabethan and Gothic influences.
- Marvel at the Victorian formal garden and picturesque views of the Camel Estuary.
- Explore the house’s exquisite Elizabethan plasterwork, porcelain collection, and period furniture.
3. Relax at St George’s Cove
- Enjoy a tranquil day at St George’s Cove, a secluded beach close to Padstow Harbour.
- Take a leisurely walk to Hawkers Cove and Harbour Cove at low tide.
- Look out for the lush countryside surrounding the beach.
4. Cycle the Camel Trail
- Embark on a cycling adventure along the Camel Trail, a scenic 18-mile route through Cornwall’s countryside.
- Stop at Wadebridge, Bodmin, or Wenfordbridge to explore charming villages along the way.
- Admire the remnants of the railway, including platforms and signs, as you pedal through the lush landscape.
5. Ride the Rock Ferry
- Hop on the Rock Ferry for a quick trip to the upscale village of Rock on the east bank of the Camel.
- Explore the charming Victorian houses, pubs, and seafood restaurants that cater to a high-end clientele.
- Try your hand at water sports like sailing, windsurfing, and waterskiing in the Camel Estuary.
6. Hike to Stepper Point
- Embark on a scenic hike to Stepper Point on the western mouth of the River Camel.
- Pause at the “Rest a While Tea Garden” for refreshments amidst lush greenery.
- Admire the stone tower, a “daymark,” that aids seafarers in navigation.
7. Surf and Watersports
- Discover North Cornwall’s famous surf beaches, including Trevone Bay, Harlyn Bay, and Treyarnon Bay.
- Enroll in a surf school at Harlyn Bay to learn the basics of surfing in a beginner-friendly environment.
- Try sea kayaking, paddleboarding, and coasteering with experienced guides for an adrenaline-filled adventure.
8. Relax at Harlyn Bay
- Spend a day at Harlyn Bay, a family-friendly beach with a broad arc of sand and shingle.
- Enjoy the safety of RNLI lifeguards from May to September for worry-free swimming.
- Explore Trevose Head for panoramic views of the coast and dunes.
9. Visit Treyarnon Bay
- Escape to the calm waters of Treyarnon Bay, ideal for families seeking a relaxed beach experience.
- Explore natural rock pools and swim in the tranquil waters of the bay.
- Watch surfers catch waves at this novice-friendly beach break.
10. Tour Padstow Lifeboat Station
- Visit the RNLI lifeboat station at Trevose Head for a glimpse into the life-saving work of the volunteers.
- Explore the modern facility housing the Tamar-class lifeboat and learn about water safety.
- Engage in interactive exhibits, dress up in uniform, and discover the station’s heroic history.
11. Discover Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps
- Take a scenic drive to Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps for breathtaking views of towering cliffs and sea stacks.
- Follow the walking trails maintained by the National Trust for a close-up look at the rugged coastline.
- Experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic coast up close at low tide.
12. Visit the National Lobster Hatchery
- Support marine conservation efforts at the National Lobster Hatchery on Padstow’s South Quay.
- Observe juvenile lobsters being grown for release back into the wild.
- Engage in interactive activities and learn about Cornwall’s fishing communities.
13. Experience Obby Oss
- Immerse yourself in Cornwall’s ancient traditions at the Obby Oss May Day celebration.
- Watch stylized Hobby Horses dance through the streets in a ritual dating back to Celtic times.
- Join the procession of dancers playing accordions and drums in a festive atmosphere.
14. Explore Padstow Museum
- Step into Padstow’s past at the local museum, showcasing the town’s maritime history.
- Admire memorabilia from the Obby Oss festival and learn about traditional Cornish clome ovens.
- Discover maritime artifacts, paintings, and a whale’s eardrum on display.
15. Indulge in Seafood Cuisine
- Treat your taste buds to fresh seafood at one of Rick Stein’s renowned restaurants in Padstow.
- Sample classic fish dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients at The Seafood Restaurant.
- Watch chefs in action at the seafood bar for a front-row culinary experience.
Final Thoughts
As you plan your visit to Padstow, consider exploring these top 15 activities to make the most of your time in this charming Cornish town. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Padstow has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags, set off on an adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime in Padstow, Cornwall!
Happy Exploring!