Information on Padstow

Padstow is a picturesque harbour on the western side of the Camel Estuary. Narrow streets run down to a bustling waterfront where fishing boats and cabin cruiser go hand in hand. You can sit for hours and watch harbour life come and go.

On the 1st of May, Padstow welcomes the beginning of summer, with the 'Obby 'Oss, an old pagan tradition. The whole town drums with a carnival atmosphere from dawn to dusk, as the beast winds its way through the streets and the revellers taking part in this age-old tradition. At the height of summer the Camel Estuary is decked out with the colourful canvas of sailboats and sailboards, and there is a fascinating flow of river traffic - ferries, fishing boats, yachts and pleasure cruisers. You can take a ferry across the estuary to Rock and visit the church of St Enodoc where Sir John Betjeman is buried. Another think that can be done from here is a trip along the Camel Trail, (there are plenty of bikes you can hire if you wish). It's the old railway line, now a cycle and footpath, winding for 18 mile along the River Camel all the way to Poley's Bridge in the foothills of Bodmin Moor, through some of the most breath taking riverside woods in the area.

Padstow is a town for all seasons, why not visit us in autumn or winter? Padstow Christmas Lights are becoming increasingly well known throughout Cornwall and are switched on in early December.

More recently Padstow has become an eaters  paradise with the resident Celebrity Chef Rick Stein leading a brace of high quality local restaurants offering everything from Fish and Chips to Fruits de mer. Add to this an outstanding range of designer and boutique shops, top quality accommodation and Padstow really does have something for everyone.

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