Padstow is a quaint harbour town that has become a significant attraction in north Cornwall over the past decade. Once, people went because of the picturesque harbour, but now, it's all about the food and fine dining. The local attractions of cosy pubs, independent shops and fantastic nearby beaches for surfing or relaxing make Padstow a very welcoming place and an excellent location for a spur-of-the-moment cottage holiday with your family or friends.
Reasons to Visit Padstow
Food and Drink
Padstow is a hive of high-quality food and drink. With most of the fine dining restaurants owned by Rick Stein, a few other celebrity chefs have also made their own mark on this traditional fishing harbour town. The bar is set high in Padstow, and as a result, many of the local establishments are just as good as the famous names. The town's pubs and bars are excellent, with local ales and ciders ready for your tasting. If you are searching for a last-minute cottage with fine dining on its doorstep, you can be sure to find it in Padstow. Discover the most extensive selection of last-minute cottages and book the one that is ideal for you and your family.
Beaches
In Padstow, you are surrounded by beaches that are suitable for relaxing and surfing. Within only fifteen minutes' drive is Trevone Bay, Harlyn Bay Beach and Constantine Bay. You can also cross the estuary by foot ferry from Padstow to Rock and enjoy Rock Beach and the nearby sand dunes. Polzeath Beach, which is one of the finest surfing beaches in Cornwall, is just over half an hour's drive away. If surfing is your sport, then Newquay is only a 32-minute drive south of Padstow.
Where to Stay in Padstow
Padstow is not a large town, and where you stay really depends on how close you'd like to be to the harbour. A harbour view is very appealing and being in the centre of town has a lovely buzz about it. However, Padstow is a very popular location, and if you'd prefer a quieter cottage, slightly further from the harbour would be a good choice.
Where to Visit near Padstow
Newquay is also known as 'surfer's heaven' and is a great day out for families as well.
Tintagel is the supposed birthplace of King Arthur, also famous for its castle.
Camel Creek Family Adventures is a theme park for young families, ideal for young children.
Polzeath is a fantastic beach that's great for surfers and families alike.