48 Hours In Padstow
March 11, 2024Settled within the iconic north coast of Cornwall, amidst the ebb and flow of the tides, the picturesque harbour town of Padstow welcomes visitors from far and wide. Get ready to journey through this charming seaside haven, uncovering the secrets of its cobblestone streets, the warmth of its hospitality, and the allure of its coastal vistas. Whether you’re planning a weekend retreat, a family holiday, or a romantic getaway, Padstow offers a sanctuary for every traveller.
Why Padstow?
Padstow’s picturesque harbour stands as the beating heart and soul of this enchanting coastal town. Here, vibrant fishing boats gently bob atop the azure waters, creating a captivating symphony of colors against the backdrop of the clear sky. Along the waterfront, charming cafes beckon with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and delectable treats, providing the perfect spot to soak in the tranquil ambiance while indulging in local delights. Wandering through the narrow streets that meander from the harbour, find yourself transported to a bygone era, where quaint cottages adorned with colorful blooms line the cobblestone pathways. Each corner turned reveals a new story, a new vista to marvel at, as if the town itself is whispering tales of its rich maritime history.
Padstow, affectionately dubbed “Padstein,” owes much of its culinary fame to the esteemed presence of celebrity chef Rick Stein, whose gastronomic empire has woven itself intricately into the fabric of this charming coastal town. With several acclaimed restaurants bearing his name, Rick Stein’s influence permeates Padstow’s dining scene, elevating it to gastronomic heights that few other destinations can rival. From the moment you set foot in Padstow, the tantalising aromas of exquisite cuisine waft through the air, beckoning visitors to embark on a culinary journey like no other. Whether it’s the promise of Michelin-starred fine dining or the humble allure of traditional Cornish pasties and freshly caught seafood, Padstow caters to every palette with an abundance of flavours and textures that celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage.
The enchanting allure of Padstow isn’t confined solely to its charming harbour and delectable culinary scene; it extends far beyond, embracing the breathtaking beauty of its surrounding coastline, which has parts that are rightfully celebrated as part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As you venture beyond the cobblestone streets of the town center, prepare to be greeted by a panorama of natural wonders that unfold in every direction. The South West Coast Path, a meandering ribbon of trail that traces the contours of the coastline, beckons adventurers to embark on a journey of discovery, offering glimpses of sandy beaches, secluded coves, and rugged headlands along the way.
The roots of Padstow run deep, stretching back through time to an era long before the arrival of the Romans or Saxons. Prideaux Place, just outside of the town, stands as a proud sentinel overlooking the town, its elegant Elizabethan facade a testament to centuries of noble heritage. Here, visitors can wander through opulent halls adorned with priceless treasures, or lose themselves amidst the tranquil beauty of landscaped gardens that have witnessed the passage of time. Alternatively, each street and alleyway in Padstow unfolds a story of its own. From the traditional fishing boats that ply the waters of the harbour, to the centuries-old customs and traditions that still hold sway, the spirit of the past is woven into the very fabric of Padstow’s present.
Nestled along the tranquil shores of the Camel Estuary, Padstow emerges as a haven for those who seek the exhilarating embrace of the sea. With its prime location at the convergence of land and water, this coastal gem beckons water sports enthusiasts from far and wide, offering a playground of possibilities where the thrill of adventure meets the serenity of nature’s embrace. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer seeking the perfect wave, or a novice eager to dip your toes into the world of paddle boarding, kayaking, or sailing, Padstow offers an array of activities to suit every skill level and inclination.
Dig In
In this gastronomic haven, the sea whispers its secrets to local fishermen who ply the waters in search of the day’s catch, while a bounty of fresh produce inspires chefs to create dishes that are as vibrant as they are delicious. From humble street food to exquisite fine dining experiences, Padstow offers a culinary journey like no other.
Located at The Pig in Harlyn, The Lobster Shed serves fresh seafood and locally sourced nibbles. It’s all about the wood-oven and local charcoal fired grill, with wood roasted fresh lobster, chargrilled steak, barbequed veggies as well as salads, fresh crab with sourdough and Ice Cream Sundaes.
For gastronomes, Paul Ainsworth’s At No.6 is hands-down the hottest address in town. Renowned chef, Paul Ainsworth’s, lets bold, seasonal flavours speak for themselves – such as Porthilly oysters from the Camel Estuary or monkfish fresh off the day boats – in an innovative menu accompanied by a cracking wine list.
At Paul Ainsworth’s more casual eatery, Caffe Rojano, the devilish combo of Italian cuisine and Cornish produce doesn’t stop at the pizza crust. There’s a trendy grazing bar for antipasti and cocktails, artisan meats hanging in the charcuterie and pasta favourites are finished using the finest local ingredients such as freshly-landed seafood.
Soothe The Soul
From leisurely strolls along the golden sands of nearby beaches to quiet moments of reflection amidst verdant gardens, Padstow provides an abundance of opportunities to connect with the natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply longing for a moment of peace, Padstow promises a haven where you can unwind, recharge, and rediscover the joy of simply being.
Dubbed Britain’s equivalent of Australia’s Twelve Apostles, Bedruthan Steps boasts golden sands that bend around a row of towering granite rock stacks. Admire the view from the cliff tops or take the knee-wobbling descent onto the beach at low tide and enjoy paddling and rock pooling in the shadow of the granite giants.
The sweeping sands and dunes of Daymer Bay are beloved of kids, sun-worshippers and windsurfers. Just behind the beach is the perfectly rounded grassy knoll of Brea Hill – a great place for a picnic with a birds-eye over the scenery that inspired the late Poet Laureate John Betjeman.
Follow the South West Coast Path west from Padstow and within less than ten minutes you’ll reach the closest beach to the town – St George’s Cove. It’s a low-tide beach hemming the estuary, with plenty of nooks and crannies for rock pooling and sunbathing.
Take a leisurely stroll along the coast path, that winds around the bay, and pause to admire the views of Trevone Bay. Replace the stresses of ordinary life with a sense of serenity and explore the natural wonders the surround you. With towering cliffs, adorned with vibrant greenery, and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Trevone invites you to dive in, soak up the sunshine and feel the warmth of the sand between your toes.
Adventure Seekers
Whatever your idea of adventure may be, Padstow promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you exhilarated, inspired, and hungry for more. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to explore the thrilling escapes that await in this coastal paradise.
Located on the shores of the picturesque Harlyn Bay, discover some of the finest waves and most pristine beaches in all of Cornwall, with the help of Harlyn Surf School. With its gently sloping sandy shores and consistent swells, Harlyn Bay provides the perfect setting for surfers of all ages and abilities to learn, practice, and perfect their craft.
Nestled in the heart of Cornwall’s scenic countryside, St Eval Kart Circuit offers thrill-seekers of all ages the chance to unleash their inner racer and navigate the twists and turns of our exhilarating karting tracks. Zoom around Cornwall’s largest and fastest outdoor Go Kart Track and enjoy an adventurous day out with the whole family.
So, if you’re ready to trade the hustle and bustle of everyday life, for the tranquility of seaside living, join us on this adventure as we uncover the beauty and charm of staying in Padstow.