A short ferry ride across the Camel Estuary takes you from the charming village of Rock to the bustling fishing town of Padstow. This easy, scenic trip is perfect for families and couples, offering an escape filled with natural beauty, incredible food, and a variety of activities. Here’s how to make the most of your day trip, from setting sail on the Black Tor Ferry to discovering the best of Padstow.

Getting to Padstow: The Black Tor Ferry

Start your day by catching the Black Tor Ferry from Rock to Padstow. This passenger ferry operates throughout the year, providing a quick, five-minute crossing of the Camel Estuary. The ride is scenic and offers lovely views of the coastline, making it a fun experience in itself. For families, it’s a short, easy adventure; and for couples, it’s a peaceful way to begin your day out together.

The ferry departs from Rock Beach, and schedules vary by season, so be sure to check the timings beforehand.

Yellow cabin on board the Black Tor ferry from Padstow to Rock

What to do in Padstow: Top activities for families and couples

Once you arrive in Padstow, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained, from culinary delights and scenic walks to family-friendly adventures. Here are some must-do activities to help you plan the perfect day.

1. Discover Padstow harbour

A walk around Padstow harbour is a must for any visitor. The colourful boats, waterfront shops, and inviting restaurants create a lively and scenic area perfect for soaking up Padstow’s charm.

  • For families: Young children will enjoy watching the fishing boats and maybe even spotting some local marine wildlife around the harbour.
  • For couples: Grab a coffee and stroll hand-in-hand along the waterfront, where the relaxed atmosphere sets a romantic tone for the day. There’s often a busker or two in action, too.

A man sat by the harbour playing a guitar

2. Enjoy fish and chips by the sea

No trip to Padstow is complete without trying some of the area’s famous fish and chips! Head to Rick Stein’s Fish & Chips for freshly prepared seafood served with homemade sauces. For families, it’s a casual, crowd-pleasing option, while couples can take their meal to a scenic spot nearby and enjoy an outdoor lunch with a view.

A path through greenery to a beach with the sea behind
Find beautiful coastal spots close to Padstow

3. Take a scenic hike on the South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views and is perfect for an active morning or afternoon in Padstow. The path around Padstow offers a variety of walking routes suitable for different fitness levels and time frames.

  • For families: Opt for a shorter, easy walk towards Hawker’s Cove. Kids will love the sights and sounds of the natural landscape, and the path isn’t too strenuous.
  • For couples: A slightly longer walk towards Stepper Point offers panoramic views and quieter spots for a scenic break together.

4. Explore the National Lobster Hatchery

The National Lobster Hatchery in Padstow is a unique attraction dedicated to marine conservation, where you can learn about lobsters and the efforts to protect marine life.

  • For families: This is a fun, educational stop where kids can see baby lobsters and learn about marine biology.
  • For couples: The hatchery offers an interesting insight into local conservation efforts, and the exhibits are engaging for all ages.
The face and front claws of a blue lobster
Photo © National Lobster Hatchery

5. Take a bike ride on the Camel Trail

The Camel Trail is a popular cycling route that runs along the scenic Camel Estuary from Padstow to Wadebridge. Bike rentals are available near the harbour, making it easy to set off on this peaceful, picturesque trail.

  • For families: The trail is flat and easygoing, ideal for a family bike ride. Rent bikes with child seats or tag-along attachments if needed, and enjoy a gentle ride together.
  • For couples: A tandem bike can add a bit of fun to the experience. The ride from Padstow to Wadebridge is approximately five miles, with beautiful estuary views and places to stop for photos along the way.

6. Visit Prideaux Place

Prideaux Place, a historic Elizabethan manor house, is located just a short walk from the center of Padstow. This centuries-old estate boasts beautiful architecture, antique-filled rooms, and gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll.

  • For families: Younger visitors will enjoy exploring the grounds, especially if there’s a chance to spot some of the resident deer in the parkland.
  • For couples: Prideaux Place is a lovely, romantic spot, especially in the off-season when the gardens are quiet. Take a guided tour of the house to learn more about its history and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Landscaped gardens with a fountain in the middle and a black lab on the lawn
Photo © Prideaux Place

7. Sample Cornish ice cream & fudge

Padstow is known for its delicious Cornish ice cream and handmade fudge, both of which make perfect treats after a day of exploring. Roskilly’s and Chough’s Bakery are well-loved for their locally made sweet treats.

  • For families: Kids will be delighted with the wide variety of flavours, and some shops even offer tasting samples.
  • For couples: Pick up a few treats to share and find a quiet spot to enjoy them by the harbour or on the return ferry.

8. Shop in Padstow’s local boutiques

Padstow’s town centre is filled with charming boutiques, offering everything from local artwork to handcrafted jewellery, books, and clothing. Take time to browse and maybe pick up a souvenir or two.

  • For families: Keep an eye out for shops with local toys, books, and children’s crafts that make for unique souvenirs.
  • For couples: Enjoy a leisurely browse through the shops together and perhaps pick up a piece of local art as a memory of your day.

A bookshop in Padstow with people walking outside

Finish the day with a ferry ride back to Rock

As the day winds down, head back to the harbour to catch the Black Tor Ferry. The return trip offers another chance to take in the beauty of the estuary, and the peaceful ferry ride is a relaxing way to end your Padstow adventure.

Tips for a great day trip

  • Bring a jacket. Even in the warmer months, the estuary breezes can be cool, so pack a light jacket.
  • Check ferry timings. The ferry operates on a seasonal schedule, so confirm the times before you set out.
  • Make reservations for dining. Popular spots like Rick Stein’s can get busy, so call ahead if you plan to eat there.

A day trip to Padstow from Rock is filled with opportunities to explore, relax, and savour the best of Cornwall. With activities for all ages, you can create a day of family fun or enjoy a memorable outing as a couple, experiencing the magic of Cornwall’s coast together.