Top 12 must-see attractions in Port Isaac
Nestled on the shores of North Cornwall, Port Isaac is a quaint fishing village with a rich cultural history that...
by Justine King / Things To Do
Padstow, a charming fishing port in North Cornwall, has plenty on offer for those on holiday. No matter the time of the year, there are plenty of things to do in Padstow. Enjoy fun-filled days at the beach, explore the local area, and taste some truly sensational culinary delights.
Our guide on things to do in Padstow will help you find ways to enjoy a half-term break with the kids, a couples vacation, or even some special days with loved ones. From things to do on rainy days to places to eat while galavanting around Padstow, you’ll find it all here.
Looking for something in particular? Use the quick links below or read on for our comprehensive guide on popular things to do in Padstow:
Some of the best things in Padstow involve embarking on a journey across the countryside. Participate in some exhilarating watersports or simply sample some delicious cuisine from one of Padstow’s many cafes and restaurants.
Image credit: Camel Ski
Everyone who visits Cornwall wants to make the most of its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters, so it’s no surprise that watersports are so prominent.
From sea kayaks, stand up paddle boards and surfing to giant inflatable islands, swimming and diving – there’s plenty to get the heart racing.
One of the best companies, in our opinion, is Camel Ski. Located on the Camel Estuary, they’ve been teaching people of all ages how to waterski since 1977.
They are now the UK’s largest waterski centre that specialises in wakeboarding, wake surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, inflatable rides and waterskiing. After an adrenaline filled day take their sea taxi to ‘The Island’ for a sunset BBQ experience you’ll never forget.
Website: camelskischool.com
Born in 2002 from a love of sharing North Cornwall with fellow adventurous souls, Wavehunters offers a wide range of watersports activities.
From sea taxis to stand up paddle boards, from surfing to sea safaris, there’s a world of adventure waiting for you.
They know North Cornwall like the back of their hand, so if you’re searching for immersive surf and marine life experiences you’ll be in safe hands with the staff at Wavehunters.
Website: wavehunters.co.uk
Looking for an all-weather activity? Why not head to Camel Creek Family Theme Park, where the adventure never ends. Nestled in 111 acres of Cornish Countryside, Camel Creek boasts over 40 rides and attractions fit for the whole family.
Voted the Silver Award for Large Attraction of the Year and Best Family Day Out by the readers of Primary Times Magazine, you and your kids can experience a thrill like no other.
There’s also a huge indoor play area for the kids where they can keep themselves entertained while you grab a coffee and cake from the on-site restaurant.
Camel Creek offers a number of seasonal events and activities so be sure to check out their website for more information. Book tickets today and enjoy a fun-filled family day out.
Website: camelcreek.co.uk
There are plenty of glorious walks in North Cornwall and Padstow is no different.
The South West Coast Path passes through Port Isaac, Polzeath, Daymer Bay, Rock and Padstow. Some of our favourite walks include Padstow and Stepper Point Walk as well as the circular Padstow to Trevone Walk.
No matter when you’re visiting Padstow we have plenty of North Cornwall Walks you’ll love. Whether you’re on your own, with family or friends, or even have your four-legged companion by your side, you’ll be able to experience stunning coastal views and breath in the fresh seaside air.
A pretty big part of Padstow is the largely flat 17-mile Camel Trail.
This largely traffic-free route follows the old railway line and is ideal for families as well as experienced and novice cyclists. With spectacular views of moorland, woodland, and the estuary you won’t be disappointed.
The route also runs through a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation making it the perfect place to spot otters, bats, dormice, kingfishers, marsh marigolds, and more. This trail is not only popular with cyclists but with walkers too.
No holiday would be complete without a trip to the beach and there are plenty of secret coves in North Cornwall, you just need to know where to look. While you’re out exploring you’re bound to come across hidden beaches and coves that are largely untouched.
From Treyarnon Bay to Fox Cove, all are worth a visit. Spend the day building sandcastles and splashing in the sea before grabbing fish and chips to finish off the day.
There’s nothing worse than being on holiday and the rain threatening to ruin your plans, but fear not!
There’s a variety of things to do in Padstow when it rains, so you can carry on enjoying your holiday even in the unpredictable British weather.
Museums make the perfect rainy day out.
Explore the local family and social history of Padstow with a trip to Padstow Museum. With an impressive collection of artefacts that present an insight into the history of Padstow over the past two centuries.
This educational day out is great for the whole family. Discover fishing stories through the years, marvel at the range of May Day celebrations and costumes. And take a look at the Harlyn Burial Site.
Website: padstowmuseum.co.uk
Padstow Brewery Company is a small family-run brewery that produces award-winning beer year after year. Their passion for creating the best beer possible is evident in the care, attention, and service they provide.
For the beer lovers, you’ll be excited to know that they provide tours and tastings at the Brewery so you can spend a rainy day sampling some delicious beer. But it’s not just beer on offer here, there’s cider, gins and cocktails too!
Website: padstowbrewing.co.uk
A big part of any seaside town is the RNLI Lifeboat Stations. These stations provide emergency assistance for fellow boats, those stuck in the waters, and anyone else who may need help.
Padstow’s lifeboat station is open to the public to take a look on board the Tamar Class Lifeboat; Spirit of Padstow.
Located at Trevose Head, the Lifeboat Station is an impressive building, standing on stilts above the beach and waters edge. With fundraising events held throughout the year, it’s a must for those looking for something a little different on a rainy day.
Website: padstowlifeboat.org.uk
As one of Cornwall’s premier holiday resorts, Padstow has a wealth of attractions on offer. But it’s not all beaches and watersports. There’s plenty more places to visit in Padstow that should be on everyone’s holiday list.
The National Lobster Hatchery is a marine conservation, research, and education charity based in Padstow. They’ve established themselves as a centre of excellence in Lobster science.
Learn about the impact these marine animals have on our planet and how mankind has an effect on them.
For a family-filled educational day out, The National Lobster Hatchery is a must. They’ve even received a Silver Cornwall Tourism Award in 2021/2022. It makes a great rainy day out in North Cornwall.
Website: nationallobsterhatchery.co.uk
Jutting out into the Atlantic, Trevose Head is arguably the most prominent headland on the North coast of Cornwall. It boasts spectacular views of Pendeen Watch in the West and Hartland Point in the east.
Trevose head is accessible via a narrow lane before opening up to a patchwork of arable fields and the contrasting coastline. You’ll also see the bright white lighthouse on the headland which offers a lovely spot for walks and bird watching.
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk/trevose-head
Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, Padstow Tourist Information Centre (TIC) is a hive of knowledge.
Offering copious amounts of advice on the local area as well as walking guides, calendars, and Cornish Memorabilia, Padstow TIC is the place to go.
You’ll find a great range of gifts, local books, maps, postcards, birthday cards, and more in one place.
If you’re a fan of the TV series Poldark you’ll be happy to know they are the official stockist of genuine Poldark Merchandise. Find out everything you need to know from opening times of local attractions to the best walks all in one place.
Website: padstowlive.com/padstow-tic
The North Cornish coast is also home to an Elizabethan manor house and a deer park – Prideaux Place.
This property and its surrounding land is steeped in over 400 years of history, having remained in the ownership of the Prideaux family since 1592.
Take a guided tour around the house or a quiet stroll through the tranquil gardens for a relaxing place to visit in Padstow.
Walk in the footsteps of famous actors and actresses as the house has been used as a filming location for several Rosamunde Pilcher films and for the hit TV Series Poldark.
Website: prideauxplace.co.uk
North Cornwall is a foodies paradise and Padstow is no different. From Michelin star restaurants to harbourside seafood, there’s something here for everyone.
For more foodie inspiration, check out our blog places to eat in north Cornwall.
Image credit: Mussel Box
Located in the heart of Padstow overlooking the harbour, The Mussel Box is a buzzing, community-inspired restaurant.
It’s built upon a love of fresh seafood and bringing people together. Using only locally sourced ingredients you’ll be able to enjoy delicious shellfish straight from the sea.
They make the perfect pitstop for a coffee, wine, or bite to eat any time of the day. They pride themselves on cooking every dish from scratch and with the fish caught by Padstow Trawlers and veg from local farmers you can’t get more local than that.
Website: musselbox.co.uk
Housed inside a beautiful Georgian Townhouse in the heart of Padstow, Paul Ainsworth at No. 6 has three dining spaces all serving their unique a la carte menu.
This Michelin–starred restaurant serves modern British food with a focus on locally sourced Cornish produce.
With a team of talented chefs, you’ll know the food and dishes have been made with passion and love. The dishes change with the seasons, so you’ll keep wanting to come back time and time again.
Website: paul-ainsworth.co.uk/number6
Looking for a unique dining experience? Greens of Padstow offers just that.
As a licensed restaurant and mini-golf garden, they offer both views over the Cornish coast and a round of mini-golf. It‘s the best holiday fun for the whole family.
Starting life as a pitch ‘n’ putt course it’s developed over the years to a modern sanctuary for lovers of fine food, panoramic views, and nature. Offering more than just your typical restaurant, you can spend a fair few hours here and never get bored.
Website: greenspadstow.co.uk
At John Bray Cornish Holidays we have a wide range of sea view cottages, dog-friendly escapes or large properties to accommodate all the family.
If we’ve tempted you with a break to North Cornwall, browse our wonderful collection of holiday cottages in Padstow.
For more North Cornwall inspiration, check out our top 15 things to do in North Cornwall.
by Justine King / Things To Do
Hi, I'm Justine. Holidays and travelling have always been a favourite of mine from a young age. Having recently decided to travel...
Read More About Author
Sign up to receive exclusive offers, competitions and the latest news to your inbox, and you'll be entered into our monthly prize-draw 3 times!
Nestled on the shores of North Cornwall, Port Isaac is a quaint fishing village with a rich cultural history that...
Discover stunning natural moorland, dramatic coastlines, soft sandy beaches, and turquoise seas with these best things to do in...
Padstow is a pretty little fishing village located on the Camel Estuary in North Cornwall. It’s well-protected from the...
