If you are planning a trip to Cornwall then you should not miss visiting Padstow, a harbour town on the North Cornish coast. Although this was a centre of trade for quite a long century now it has become the main spot for tourists visiting Cornwall.
If you love clicking pictures and making good memories with your companions, then this is the best destination for you. Why? Because this is a picturesque destination suitable for holidaymakers.
Here at Padstow, you will get to enjoy boat trips and ferry rides. It offers ample other destinations where holidaymakers can spend quality time with their loved ones and enjoy their leisure time. We have compiled an interesting list of the things to do in Padstow Cornwall.
So, are you excited to explore Padstow deeply? Read our guide till the end to make the most out of your trip to Padstow.
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Things to Do in Padstow
- Where to Stay in Padstow
- Things to Do in Padstow Cornwall
- Best Beaches in Padstow You Should Not Miss
- Things to Do Near Padstow
- Before You Leave for Padstow
- What to Pack for Your Trip to Padstow
- What is the Best Travel Insurance for Padstow
Things To Do In Padstow Cornwall!
Undoubtedly, Padstow is an amazing destination in Cornwall and as you are heading towards England, you must never miss visiting Padstow as if you do, you would be missing out on something too good.
Let us read out about the Things To Do In Padstow Cornwall below where you can mark your steps while being in Padstow:
Kernow Chocolate
Are you a chocolate lover and love being surrounded by a lot of different varieties of chocolates? Well, we caught you. Kernow Chocolate is a chocolate factory that was founded back in the year 2005 and hence this is located in the small village of St. Eval in North Cornwall. Kernow Chocolate is growing with a rapid force and hence this has become of the most loved confectionery in South West England.
Not just this, the bakers of Kernow Chocolate have an attractive range of chocolate bars that are just available in independent shops in Cornwall and also only at the selected Devon outlets.
Tintagel Castle (King Arthur’s Castle)
Do you love to explore old and traditional stuff? Do you love to get pictured at some old and iconic castles? Do you love to know about the historical sides of legendary kings? If all of this is a “Yes”, then my friend, you should mark your steps to King Arthur’s Castle. This is the most engrossing and the most captivating place for visitors of all age groups.
Moreover, this legendary castle is being run and owned by English Heritage, a registered charity that takes care of approx. 400 historic buildings across the whole of England. You will be charged a visiting fee which will help to preserve it for future generations.
Minack Theater
In love with live shows full of comedy, live music, drama shows, storytelling, and much more fun? Come and mark your presence at Minack Theater. It is located above the Atlantic Ocean and hence gives you a feel of a completely rejuvenated vibe. Just think how refreshing it would be to attend live shows beneath the stars.
Carnewas
Are you a selfie queen or a selfie king? This beach can be your next best friend until you are in Padstow. Why? Because this is an absolutely clean beach with not much sand or sunbathers. You can even glance at this beach from over a huge expanse of rock. Taking a walk at this beach would feel soothing especially when you are accompanied by a sole mate.
But oh, do not forget to carry your pair of beach boots along with you as you would not like to be caught by the current in the water. Also, if you are in the mood to rest, you can undoubtedly spread your legs and glance at the beach surroundings for a while.
National Lobster Hatchery
Whilst the name is largely conveying about the place itself. Lobsters, yes, not many of you would be aware of the vulnerable population of lobsters in Padstow. Through this National Lobster Hatchery, awareness can be raised through educational inhibitions and breeding programs. So, by visiting National Lobster Hatchery, you would be able to see the young lobster being reared.
St. George’s Cove
If you are planning to go to Padstow Harbor, then you must plan a visit to St. George’s Cove. This place is surely not a place to miss as here you would enjoy the sandy beach on the estuary and also renders some advantages over the Atlantic neighbours. Those who are unable to resist windy waves don’t have to worry as St. George’s Cove only has ripples of winds rather than crashing waves.
Moreover, if you are looking to swim on the sandy beach, hold on as this is not a safe option. Why? This is because the beach is filled with estuary currents so it might catch you.
Camel Trail
Are you aware that until 1964, Padstow had a direct connection to London via rail through the Atlantic Coast Express? Furthermore, for the ones who love cycling and love to paddle along narrow roads, Camel Trail is the best escape. Also, the trail is divided into three different sections which are equal and hence you can decide which area you would want to ride to.
Bodmin, Wendfordbridge, and Wadebridge are those three options. Nevertheless, you can even explore mid-way destinations, enjoy a picnic at picnic spots and even witness the ethnicity of the Camel River.
Rock Ferry
Rock ferry is another great option that you can consider while you are visiting Padstow, Cornwall. The black tor sails across the camel at 20-minute intervals to the village of the rock on the east bank. Although the service of the rocking ferry is regular you should always play safe by checking the tide timings before visiting the rocking ferry.
Camel Creek Adventure Park
Are you an adventure enthusiast? If yes, then you should not miss visiting Camel Creek Adventure Park in Padstow. This is a vibrant place and hence this is one of the most welcoming destinations for tourists all around the year. Camel Creek Adventure Park is popular for delivering great adventures and hence it has activities for people of all age groups.
Whether you are travelling with kids, mid-aged friends, or older people, you will find adventure all over this destination. Not just this, but this is an all-year park which means that you can enjoy adventure here in all the seasons.
Prideaux Place
Do you know that Cornwall is home to ample historic homes and Prideaux Place is one of those homes? The construction of Prideaux Place was completed in the 14th century and you would be amazed to glance at this beautiful mansion.
It is believed that over 14 generations stayed at this amazing mansion and they made renovations and additions as per their taste and preferences throughout the years. Upon your visit, you will explore the house and the fine art and furniture collection.
Tea Garden
If you are a tea lover accompanied by a soul mate, how about a walk near the coastal path having a teacup in hand? Isn’t it a romantic thing? Well, the tea garden is a charming place for all tea lovers accomplished with stunning jaw-dropping views and surrounded by scenic views.
So, these were some of the best Things To Do In Padstow, Cornwall.
Best beaches in Padstow You Should Not Miss!
Do you love beaches? Just because there you can easily vent out all the negativity inside you and gain that freshness of the windy breeze and dip your toes in the sandy water. Well, we caught you. Beaches are a lot of fun especially when they are clean. Here in this guide, we have included a list of beaches. So, go and check which one would be best for your holiday.
There’s a lot in Padstow Things To Do. So, read about these amazing beaches and visit them upon your arrival in Padstow.
Daymer Bay
Daymer Bay is located on the other side of the Camel Estuary and hence is popular among tourists. And this is because of its clean and serene surroundings. You can easily mark your steps to Daymer Bay through the route of the boat. So, this will be an exciting and thrilling adventure for you and the ones who are accompanying you. So, what are you waiting for? Just pack your bags and head over to this panoramic Cornish beach.
Bedruthan Steps
Almost every one of us loves quietness. Bedruthan Steps is a beach which is also known as Carnewas and hence this is a beach which is slopped in myth as most of the Cornish folks claim that a giant known as Bedruthan used the large stones for a shortcut across the Bay. You can undoubtedly spend an ultimately peaceful time here at this geological splendour and make the most out of your visit.
Porthcothan
Have you ever heard about Porthcothan? This is a hidden gem in North Cornwall. This rugged Cornish cove has dramatic rock formations and hence there is a pool of things to explore over here. Furthermore, if you are a swimmer and love to swim in filthy waters, this beach is just for you.
Wait for the high tide as the sea floods up during this period which makes a great playground for swimmers and water babies. There are street vendors spread across the beach so you can buy ice cream, waffles, pastries, or anything you desire for.
Constantine
Constantine is another lovely beach that is backed and curved with sand dunes having a landmark lighthouse alongside it. One good thing about this beach is that it attracts wave riders and hence is the best for the ones who love to ride on top of the waters. However, on normal days, this beach is an amazing spot for a picnic as you can witness this beautiful place with your partner or with whom you are visiting Padstow.
Hawker’s Cove
Hawker’s Cove is the closest beach to Padstow and is one of the must-see places to visit in Cornwall. This beach is located in North Cornwall and hence is a tidal beach of light golden sand and turquoise waters. Moreover, this beach is suitable for kitesurfers and windsurfers as there’s a lot of space available so these activities can be carried out easily.
So, aren’t these beaches in Padstow amazing?
Things To Do Near Padstow
Cornish Birds of Prey Centre
There’s so much to explore here at the Cornish Birds of prey centre. It has thousands of birds of prey, a waterfowl lake, a small play area, other animals, a café for the visitors to chill out, and more. This is an amazing destination that will make your trip even more exciting and thrilling. As this place is equipped with swings and a seesaw, this is absolutely a kid-friendly place. This can be your picnic spot while you visit Padstow.
MacDonalds Farm
Are you travelling with your kids? If yes, then you must visit this extraordinary place near Padstow. MacDonalds Farm is a farmhouse where there are a lot of activities to do. Having an indoor games barn, it is an exclusive place where you can unwind and recharge yourself from the monotonous schedule.
You would see cows, lambs, pigs, ponies, chickens, and more over here and hence you can even educate your child about animals at this beautiful farmhouse.
Port Isaac Treasure Hunt Trail
Another interesting piece that you can add to your list is Port Isaac Treasure Hunt Trail. This is located at a small distance from Padstow. If you are hungry for an adventure in your life, then you can undoubtedly go and rejuvenate yourself at this amazing place.
This place is just like a game as you have to take the clues and find the hidden trails with the help of signs, symbols, and landmarks. Moreover, you won’t get any personal guide at this place so you need to solve the trail by yourself.
Before You Leave for Cornwall
Before you head off on your trip to Cornwall, there are certain things you will need to get organised to ensure a smooth trip. These include what to pack, where to stay and what travel insurance to book.How Do I Get to Cornwall?
Cornwall is located in the southwestern tip of England. It is easily reachable by public transport, including train and bus, with routes that take you from major cities directly to Truro. If you are flying into the country, the closest airport will be Newquay Airport, however, you can still easily reach The Cornwall by bus and train from any other part of the country.Where to Stay in Cornwall?
What Should I Pack for Cornwall?
What you need to pack for Cornwall will rely highly on when you make your trip there. During the Spring and Autumn months, temperatures and weather patterns vary wildly between beautiful sunny skies and freezing rain.
The temperatures generally vary from 5 oC to 15 oC during these months, with a mixture between cold, winds and warmer temperature. There are some rainy days, with maybe 10 in 16 days receiving rainfall, which might be more comfortable to have rain jacket with yourself.
During the Summer months in Cornwall, temperatures tend to range from 12oC to 19oC, with some days topping 22oC.
If you need more inspiration on what to pack for your trip, check out our full packing guides for all-weather conditions over here.
Given the beautiful sights and scenery that you will see in Cornwall, we highly recommend packing a good camera for your trip. If you want to read more about the cameras we use and why we love them, check out the link below.
Photography Equipment
Main Photography Camera – Sony A7v Mirrorless Camera and Sony A7iii Mirrorless Camera
Microphone – Sony Mic ECM-B1M
Main Lens – Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8
Zoom Lens – Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8
Camera Tripod – ZOMEI Z669C Camera Tripod
Gorilla Pod – JOBY JB01507-BWW GorillaPod
Action Camera – GoPro Hero 11 and Insta 360 One RS
Drone Camera – DJI Mavic Pro 3
Camera Bag – Wandrd PRVKE 41L and The Nest by Tropicfeel
Phone Tripod – Manfrotto MKPIXICLAMP-BK, Mini Tripod with Universal Smartphone Clamp
Sturdy Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick – ATUMTEK 61″ Selfie Stick Tripod, Sturdy Phone Tripod Stand with Wireless Remote
Hard Drives – LaCie Rugged Mini, 5TB, 2.5″, Portable External Hard Drive
SSD – SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB Portable NVMe SSD
Travel Adapter –Worldwide Travel Adapter Universal Travel Plug with 4 USB Ports+Universal AC Socke
What is the Best Travel Insurance?
I know tavel insurance is the least enjoyable thing to purchase and look at when you’re planning a trip, however, you wouldn’t want to be without it in the event that something happened. Accidents can happen anywhere and the extortionate medical bills will ruin your trip if you are not covered.
To ensure you have a stress-free trip with no worries about potential medical bills, make sure you cover yourself when you travel. We can recommend using SafetyWing, a backpacker-friendly and cheap insurance company that provides good coverage and support. It is also nomad-friendly, unlike most other insurance companies, meaning you do not need to worry about being out of your home country for too long.
Get a quote for your travel insurance right here and get covered!
So there you have it, a guide to The Best Things to Do in Padstow. If you have visited Cornwall recently, let us know what you thought of the activities and beautiful buildings in the area. If you have any suggestions let us know in the comments below.
As always, sharing is caring so make sure to share this photo guide with your family and friends and inspire them to head off on their own English adventure. If you are planning the trip for yourself, make sure you have a look at the rest of our England content for more inspiration to our beautiful home country.
When you set off on your own adventure, be sure to tag us in your photos on Instagram and we will share them with the rest of our community. In the meantime, why not follow us over there to see what we are currently up to and keep up with us on our Instagram Stories.
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