Padstow, on Cornwall’s north coast, is a quaint fishing village where working boats share the harbour with Rick Stein’s famous restaurants. Winding streets, pastel cottages, and a lively harbour give it timeless seaside charm alongside its notable foodie reputation.
You can reach Padstow by car, but the most enjoyable way is to take the ferry from Rock. From Highcliffe, it’s just a scenic 45 minute walk to the ferry, so there’s no need for a car. The short trip across the Camel Estuary offers beautiful views, and you can check the ferry timetable here.
If you’ve walked over from Highcliffe, you’ll likely be ready for a bite to eat. Prideaux Walled Garden is the perfect stop - a peaceful, historic setting with a cosy bothy cafe. Here, you can enjoy a simple seasonal menu, crafted in their kitchen with organic produce grown in the garden.
Wandering around Padstow’s harbour, you can explore a mix of shops and delis, from homewares and gifts to local specialties. Alongside the bustling quay, fishing boats come in with their catch, offering a glimpse of the town’s maritime life.
After some mooching, a coffee and a sweet treat might be just the thing. Sabzi, which means “herb” in Persian serves excellent coffee alongside a tempting selection of bakes, from cookies to Persian love cake and more.
Everyone knows Rick Stein in Padstow, with his restaurants, delis, and shops scattered around the town. But you can also visit his fishmongers to pick up freshly caught local fish and take a taste of the harbour home to cook yourself.
Take the ferry back to Rock and stop for a quick pint at The Mariners, with its views over the estuary, before heading home to cook your freshly caught fish.