Things to do in Padstow

Boat and Fishing Trips

Situated on the banks of the River Camel, Padstow is only 2 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, making it the perfect place for exploring both river and ocean

The Camel Trail

This stretch of cycle path follows a dis-used railway line between Padstow and Bodmin, passing through Wadebridge. With stunning views along the way through the Cornish countryside, passing the Camel Valley Vineyard and Bodmin Steam Railway. For the more adventurous you can stray off the path to discover local villages, or venture past Bodmin on to Bodmin Moor. 

Ferry

The Black Tor ferry runs a daily service between Padstow and Rock. The trip lasts about 5 minutes and it's a great way to see Padstow and the estuary.

Cruises

The Jubilee Queen runs one hour cruises from Padstow Harbour throughout the main season and Padstow Sealife Safaris runs 1 and 2 hour trips around the local coastline.

Walking

To the north of the town and accessible by the coast path is a super stretch of sand from St Georges Cove to Harbour Cove and Hawkers Cove. 

The walk from Padstow to St Georges Cove takes about 10 minutes with views across the estuary. Harbour Cove is just further along the coast. The walk out to the headland to Stepper Point provides the most stunning views of the estuary including Daymer Bay, Rock and up the estuary to the old Iron Bridge which is part of the Camel Trail.

Dining out

Self catering in Padstow offers so much choice as there are many restaurants to choose from including Paul Ainsworth at No.6, Rick Stein's Cafe, Stein's Fish and Chips, Rojano's in the Square and The Cornish Arms in St, Merryn.

Padstow filming locations

Cornwall has been a popular location for filming for many years and Padstow and its neighbours are no exception.

Doc Martin

The BBC TV series Doc Martin is filmed in the village of Port Isaac. If you are familiar with the story you will recognise the village immediately and you may even recognise some of the locals, many who have been extras in Doc Martin.  Port Isaac is also the home of the folk group The Fisherman's Friends so you may be treated to some Sea Shanty singing when they play locally in the summer.

Rick Stein

Padstow's most famous resident, Rick Stein has filmed many programmes in the area.

Rosamunde Pilcher

Prideaux Place in Padstow has been used as a locating for the TV dramatisation of some of Rosamunde Pilcher's books including Coming Home, along with several other German television shows. Prideaux Place has also been used in filming for Twelfth Night and ITV's Wycliffe.