Welcome to Padstow in Cornwall

Padstow (Cornish: Lannwedhenek) is a small town, civil parish and cargo port on the north coast of Cornwall. The parish had a population of 3,162 in 2001, although this increases enormously in summer. The town, made famous by Celebrity Chef, Rick Stein is located approximately 14 miles northeast of Newquay, at the mouth of the River Camel and has a quieter feel about it.

There are a number of hotels and guest houses around Padstow and the general North Cornwall area. Families can explore and enjoy several excellent beaches and coves with differing characters for different needs. Surfers may choose Polzeath, whilst Constantine Bay and Harlyn Bay offer something else. Visit the collapsed sea cave at Trevone or John Betjeman's grave near Daymer Bay. Bedruthan Steps and Pentire are spectacular in fine weather for those walking the coast path.

From 1899 to 1967 the railway from Bodmin passed through Wadebridge and followed the River Camel to Padstow. On the demise of the railway, the old railway line was transformed into the Camel Trail, a cycle path and walking route. Other walks around Padstow can be selected below, with one of the best leading away from the town, past the War Memorial at St. Saviours and on to Stepper Point.

On the eastern shore of the estuary lies the village of Rock. A hit with locals and the monied classes as well as the sailing fraternity, Rock has recently been chosen by the younger Royals as a quiet getaway. The Black Tor ferry connects Rock with Padstow and also enables coastpath walkers to explore Daymer Bay, Trebetherick and all points east. Incidentally Padstow also marks the northern end of the Saints' Way - a coast to coast walk - from Fowey in the south.