Information about Rock

Holidays in Rock

The village of Rock could hardly be less appropriately named, famous for the long stretches of fine sandy beaches and clear blue water.

Rock is renowned as one of the major water-sport centres in Cornwall - sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, canoeing and rowing are all activities which can be carried out in the relatively calm waters of the estuary.

Excellent food can be found in the many restaurants of the village from the double Michelin Star Nathan Outlaw in Rock to the cafes and pubs, as well as the fresh local produce available from the bakery, butcher, fish shop, delicatessen and general store.

The Sailing Club, founded in 1938, is situated on the Quay at Rock. Amenities include; bar, an excellent galley and showers. Organised racing takes place every day from mid July to early September, and on most Sundays from May to October. The Camel School of Sailing provides tuition for beginners or those wishing to brush up on their sailing, in a selection of dinghies. The Estuary provides ideal conditions for all levels of windsurfing experience with the Camel Ski School providing instruction for water skiing for the novice, in a clearly defined area, and for the expert, facilities are located at the pontoon. Also provided is a tender service to the moorings.

The famous St. Enodoc Golf Course situated on the banks of the Camel estuary is reputed to be one of the best in the West of England. Two 18-hole courses provide magnificent views across the estuary with a resident professional available if required. There are several other golf courses in the area including; Roserrow Golf & Country Club near Polzeath, at Camelford (Bowood Park), and at St. Kew (9 holes - Pay & Play).

The Black Tor ferry runs from Rock to Padstow all year (times displayed on harbour board), and in the evening a water taxi is available which specialises in taking people to Padstow restaurants such as Rick Stein's (saving the drive to Padstow). Local fishermen offer trips for sea fishing from Padstow or Rock, with mackerel and pollock being the main catch. Excellent pleasure trips are run from Padstow in powerboats or on the larger Jubilee Queen which tours local bays and islands. The Camel Trail, once the route of the old railway line, is a must for cyclists. It runs alongside the estuary from Padstow to Wadebridge and on to the upper reaches of the River Camel at Bodmin, bikes to suit all ages can be hired locally.

Porthilly Cove is just around the corner from the Sailing Club at Rock and is home to the historic church of St. Michael's.

On the outskirts of Rock village is Pityme - a hamlet with a cluster of houses that includes the Pityme Inn. Next is Tredrizzick - a tiny secluded village leading to St. Minver - a pretty village nestling around the St. Menefreda Church and home of the Fourways Inn. Just beyond St. Minver and Tregwarmond Mill is Chapel Amble, home to the Walmsley Sanctuary, providing over 40 acres of bird sanctuary, and is the migratory home to at least 90 species of birds.

Click here for a full list of self catering holiday cottages in Rock.