Such a special place for so many reasons. I'm lucky enough to have a family home here, so for the past 15 years I've seen this town grow and change into the most perfect U.K. break catering to families, couples or friend getaways! Read on for the best tips!
Pubs & Places for Drinks
For your traditional cosy pubs I recommend The Golden Lion and The London Inn or if you are heading out of Padstow for a day trip I would also go to the Cornish Arms in St. Merryn!
For drinks I recommend Padstow Brewing Company, they now have two places within Padstow to go to which is great (both can be booked online in advance!) don't go without having my favourite beer which is the Pocket Rocket. They do beer flights, beer tasting sessions and have nibbles to accompany your drinks, and don't worry they do cocktails and prosecco too if you aren't a beer fan! I also enjoy Bin Two which is an outdoor wine bar with cosy seating looking on to the harbour.
Restaurants
Highly recommend Caffe Rojano, we have been going for years and love it! Offering a simple Italian menu with an American twist. It is one of Paul Ainsworth's few restaurants that he has in the area.
Mussel Box offers outdoor dining located right in the harbour so you can watch the world go by whilst you enjoy a menu of local fish dishes! They also do a great steak and lots more. Would also highly recommend their Sunday roasts which are delicious!
Ben’s for breakfast is fantastic! It's actually voted the best place to eat in Padstow on Tripadvisor! You must try their breakfast burrito!
My next one is over on Rock (just pop on the ferry it takes just a few minutes and arrive regularly!). The Mariners is another of Paul Ainsworth's and has a beautiful view overlooking Padstow with a varied menu including great nibbles - also perfect if you just want to pop in for drink when on a walk!
Another one that is just outside of Padstow is the Lobster Shed at The Pig Hotel at Harlyn Bay. It has a great American style atmosphere and you could walk to Harlyn Beach from there as well!
If you wanted something a bit more fancy or for a special ocassion, I recommend the Prawn on the Lawn and Michelin star restaurant Paul Ainsworth's No 6.
Things to do
For families there are lots of activities you can do like crabbing over the harbour wall, mini golf at Greens or a bike ride to Bodmin (there is cycle hire at the start of the route!).
Beach day in beautiful Padstow or you could get the ferry to the beach on Rock.
Lots of amazing walks! Head over the cliffs past Padstow beach and go to Stepper Point for the most amazing view (don't miss the hidden tearooms on route - the best scones you'll ever eat!). Or get the ferry again over to Rock and do the walk to Polzeath where you'll find cute shops, restaurants and a lovely beach! If heading out of Padstow go to Constantine Bay for breathtaking views.
Best of the Seaside Classics!
Cornish pasty: The Cornish Pasty co. (next to the Cornish Bakery) is my stand out favourite after trying everywhere over the years! Followed by Rick Stein's and Chough's Bakery.
Fish and chips: has to be Chip Ahoy!
Ice cream: Harbour Ice Cream is delicious! Love the strawberries and cream!
TOP TIP: Book in advance!