Beaches in Wadebridge

Wadebridge might not be slap-bang on the Cornish coast, but it still enjoys a close proximity to some of North Cornwall’s most beautiful beaches.

Rock – Popular with locals, visitors, and even royals, Rock beach should be top of anyone’s list when visiting Wadebridge. Lie back and enjoy the view from the golden sands, venture into the waters for some refreshing fun, or hop on the water taxi and visit Padstow for a bite to eat and a wander!

Daymer Bay – Lined with dunes and sand hills, and dog-friendly all year round, Daymer Bay has become a popular haunt with families looking for somewhere to let the pack go wild. Although there are no lifeguards here, this sheltered bay is great for swimming, while Braey Hill provides a jaw-dropping place to soak up the surrounding views.

Polzeath – A good one for those wanting to try their hand at surfing, Polzeath combines sand and surf for maximum effect. Visiting this dog-friendly beach at low tide will reward you with an insane amount of sand to enjoy, perfect for some beachside ball games with the family.

Things to do in Wadebridge

Whether you fancy a bit of retail therapy or you want to swap the shore for the sea and head out on an exhilarating boat trip, there is much to see and do in Wadebridge during your stay.

The Camel Trail

Connecting Wadebridge, Padstow, and Bodmin, this scenic cycling trail has been created on the old railway line. The whole trail is 18 miles long and is totally traffic-free and quite level ground, making it ideal for every ability. Hire bikes in Wadebridge and cycle alongside the estuary to Padstow, or through countryside and woodland to Bodmin.

Walking

Wadebridge is home to Saints Way, a 16-mile cross-country walking route that was forged in ancient times by Celtic saints between Padstow and Fowey. The walk takes you past pretty creeks and villages, and through the ancient town of Lostwithiel. Bodmin Moor and the South West Coast Path are also nearby, both of which are fantastic for walking and well worth an exploration or two.

Boat trips & Watersports

The river Camel estuary is a playground for activities on the water, with boat trips running between Padstow and Rock, speedboat tours, and watersport lessons and hire. You can have a go at stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, water-skiing, or banana boating, which is exactly as fun as it sounds!

Shopping

Wander the streets of Wadebridge and you'll be spoilt for choice with independent shops, boutiques, and galleries - not to mention a cracking line up of antiques shops. Pop into Winifred and Mabel for some handmade gifts, Quirky Boutique for a new look, or Wadebridge Bookshop for something to read on the beach. And if you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for all your retail needs, a trip to Hawksfield is a Cornish must, which boasts clothing, art galleries, eateries, and even vintage vehicles!

Dining out in Wadebridge

Strong Adolfos

A roadside café that offers buckets of charm (and coffee), Strong Adolfos has become a favourite for locals and visitors alike, especially within the motorcycle communities. Stop by for breakfast, lunch, or a quick drink before you explore the hidden joys of Hawksfield.

Warne's Bar and Restaurant

Located in the heart of Wadebridge, this family-friendly restaurant has some mouth-watering menu choices including burgers, steaks, and seafood dishes, with a separate gluten-free menu too.

The Stepping Stone

Serving a selection of modern British cuisine made from local Cornish produce, this hidden gem is not to be missed. Enjoy a relaxing dining experience and choose from a fantastic selection of delicious dishes.

The Tiny Thai

Situated in a riverside location, this authentic Thai restaurant serves food that is packed full of flavour. Expect a welcoming and informal setting with a street food feel.

Route 39

If you fancy something a bit different on your holiday, why not check out this American-style diner, serving fantastic pancakes, milkshakes, burgers, grills, and other dishes you would expect to find in the states.

Malcolm Barnecutt Bakery

No trip to Cornwall would be complete without sampling a Cornish pasty. Malcolm Barnecutt's are arguably the best pasty-makers in this part of Cornwall and sell a delicious range of sandwiches and cakes too.

Further afield, there's Rick Stein's, Paul Ainsworth at Number 6, and Rojano's Italian restaurant in Padstow, as well as a fabulous range of seafood restaurants in Rock and Port Isaac.

Explore Wadebridge's other great eateries in our guide.

Dog-friendly Wadebridge

When it comes to dog-friendly places in Cornwall, you really can’t beat Wadebridge. Rock beach and Daymer Bay are both dog-friendly, and the surrounding coastline is perfect for some seaside walkies. Or, if it’s food you’re after, you can head to The Ship Inn, Craftworks, and The Pearl and Trawl, which all welcome dogs and their well-behaved owners.

Getting around

With a train station, plenty of buses, and even the odd water taxi, you can certainly leave the car behind during your holiday in Wadebridge. Of course, if you want to travel further afield to explore the hidden coves along the north coast, there are car parks by all the major beaches in the area as well as throughout the town itself.