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Padstow, a charming fishing village and seaside resort, sits on the estuary of the River Camel in North Cornwall. In recent years, Padstow has earned the title of Cornwall's culinary capital, thanks to a proliferation of high-profile restaurants, including a top-notch fish and chip shop.
The Seafood Restaurant, founded by celebrity chef Rick Stein, is perhaps the most famous of these establishments. Additional culinary ventures by Stein and other renowned chefs have also set up shop in town. While reservations are recommended for these popular eateries, there are also exceptional fish and chip shops serving a variety of freshly-caught fish. Enjoy a meal on the quay with a stunning view, no reservation required!
While the town itself doesn't boast any beaches, there are excellent beaches just outside Padstow that are perfect for swimming and other water activities. A ferry links Padstow to the village of Rock on the other side of the River Camel, where extensive sandy beaches line the estuary. The main beach at Padstow is Tregirls beach, a flat, sandy beach within walking distance from the town. The estuary also provides excellent moorings for visiting yachts, and various boat trips operate from the inner harbour, including exciting rib boat rides.
Rock is a small seaside village located opposite Padstow on the northern bank of the River Camel. Ample parking is available, and a ferry frequently crosses to Padstow. There are a few shops, but limited beach facilities; however, further along from Rock, a large car park provides access to beautiful, sandy beaches which are National Trust properties. Here, you'll find toilets, cafes, and beach shops. A short distance away is the village of Polzeath, known for its wide sandy beach and full range of facilities. A walk along the coast to Pentire Point offers breathtaking views of the North Cornwall coast.
Padstow offers a variety of coastal activities, such as surfing, sailing, bird watching, and walking. A multitude of attractions are available within the coastal area, including piers, harbours, fun fairs, and roller coasters. Look for details of attractions in the resort pages.
Our listings section provides details of local pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops. Stay tuned for our upcoming restaurant and shop guides.
We regularly feature articles and news items about life on the coast. Contributions to this section are always welcome. Explore our photo gallery for a visual tour of Padstow.