8 brilliant suggestions for what to do in Padstow

Padstow is a delightful fishing port on the north coast of Cornwall that has a whole range of attractions that cater to both adults and children. The eight suggestions below for what to do in Padstow showcase the beautiful, fun and educational offerings that this charming town has to offer.

1. Prideaux Place

The breathtaking Elizabethan manor house known as Prideaux Place dates from the 16th century and is great for kids and adults alike to visit. The majestic mansion features 81 rooms to explore via an informative guided tour, as well as stunning gardens and a marvellous deer park.

2. Bedruthan Steps

The ruggedly picturesque Bedruthan Steps offers incredible views and can be accessed via a steep cliff staircase. The beach almost disappears completely during high tide so if you want to walk along it you should time your visit to during the low tide. However, the landscape views from the cliff top are more than enough incentive to travel to this beautiful location which is linked to a delightful story that the stacks at the beach were stepping stones used by a giant called Bedruthan.

3. National Lobster Hatchery

Incorporating animals into your visit is easy to do with the National Lobster Hatchery. It’s not your typical day out but instead provides an entertaining and educational insight into the work being done to preserve vulnerable lobster populations. A visit to the hatchery offers a chance to view young lobsters while they are growing in preparation for being released, as well as the resident giant lobster and eye-catching crabs and there are also fun family-friendly activities to get involved in. The hatchery is open every day except Christmas and adult tickets are £3.50, children’s tickets are £1.50 and kids under five years old get free entry.

4. Constantine Bay

If you want to hit the waves Constantine Bay offers excellent surfing conditions, though recommended for experienced surfers only. Alternatively stick to the shallows and the sand by exploring the numerous rock pools or taking a long, leisurely stroll along the beach which links up with Boobies Bay at low tide. Constantine Bay is also a dog-friendly spot too.

5. Camel Trail

If you’re keen to get out and about and explore the lovely landscape, the Camel Trail is the ideal place to head to. This 18-mile trail travels through Padstow, Wadebridge and Bodmin following a disused railway line and is suitable for a variety of outdoor activities including cycling, walking and horse-riding. It’s mainly traffic-free status makes it suitable for kids as well as adults.

6. Padstow Museum

If you’re keen to gain insight into the history of Padstow you can do so with the small but informative Padstow Museum. The museum is open from Easter to October with free entry and has a number of artefacts that provide an overview of how Padstow has developed over the last two centuries.

7. Padstow Sea Life Safaris

Take to the seas for a wonderful boat safari courtesy of Padstow Sea Life Safaris. There are a number of boat trips to choose from that range from an hour to two hours and provide the chance to spot a variety of wildlife such as seals, puffins, basking sharks and dolphins as well as fantastic views of the spectacular coastline.

8. Go wild with watersports

Padstow is perfect for getting stuck into a diverse range of watersports. You can choose from the likes of surfing, kayaking, kite surfing and water-skiing to name a few, with lessons and equipment available for hire in Padstow.

A pretty port full of fun

Padstow is a lively and attractive port that provides many ways to have a brilliant visit whether you’re just there for the day or staying over several days. From interesting history to lovely landscapes and superb sporting activities you’ll never be stuck wondering what to do in Padstow.