Local Area · North Cornwall
Padstow Harbour, a short drive away
A bustling working harbour at the mouth of the River Camel — fresh seafood, boat trips and a tangle of pretty streets, all within easy reach of Atlantic Bays.
The harbour town
A picturesque port with a long history
Padstow Harbour sits where the River Camel flows out into the Atlantic, on the north coast of Cornwall. It is a genuinely working harbour with roots stretching back to medieval times, when Padstow was an important trading port.
Today it is one of north Cornwall’s best-loved days out — and from Atlantic Bays in St Merryn it is only a short drive, making it an easy afternoon’s wander during your stay.
What to see and do
Life around the quay
Seafood off the boats, a trip out on the water and a maze of streets to lose an afternoon in — here is what draws visitors back to Padstow year after year.
A working fishing harbour
Local boats still land their catch here every day — crab, lobster, mussels, oysters and the day's fish come ashore on the quay, just as they have since Padstow's days as a medieval trading port at the mouth of the River Camel.
Seafood and Rick Stein
The harbourside is lined with cafés, delis and restaurants that make the most of that catch. Padstow is famously home to chef Rick Stein, with four eateries in the region, plus a clutch of gastro pubs and proper fish-supper takeaways.
Boat trips and the water
Step aboard for a scenic coastal cruise or a sea-fishing trip from the quayside, watch the boats come and go on the tide, or simply wander the narrow streets with an ice cream in hand.
Festivals and events
The harbour comes alive through the year, not least for the famous Padstow 'Obby 'Oss celebration each May Day — one of Cornwall's oldest and liveliest folk traditions.
Cornwall’s seafood capital
Straight from the boats to your plate
Crab, lobster, mussels, oysters and the morning’s fish are landed on the quay and find their way onto menus all around the harbour — from a paper of chips on a bench to a proper sit-down feast.
Padstow is home to chef Rick Stein, with four eateries in the region, alongside a Michelin-starred establishment, gastro pubs and the Padstow Brewing Company Tasting Room.
While you’re here
More of north Cornwall on the doorstep
Padstow is just the start. From Atlantic Bays you’re within easy reach of the Seven Bays’ surf beaches, the Camel Trail and some of the finest coastal walks in the county.
- The Seven Bays beachesHarlyn, Constantine, Treyarnon, Polzeath and more — most a ten-minute drive.
- The Camel TrailA flat, traffic-free cycling and walking trail along the estuary from Padstow.
- Coastal walksThe South West Coast Path, Bedruthan Steps and the cliffs above the bays.
What guests say
A great base for exploring Padstow
The property was clean and very well equipped, in a great location near several beautiful beaches. The owner was very kind and helpful.
Fabulous place to stay. The staff were extremely helpful. Shower block was very clean. Definitely will be back.
Make Padstow your local
Stay minutes from the harbour
Base yourself at Atlantic Bays and you’re a short drive from Padstow, the Seven Bays and the whole north Cornwall coast. Check live availability for your dates, or give the team a call.