Things to do in Padstow
Padstow is a pretty seaside town, right on a harbour, surrounded by picturesque fishing cottages. It’s a lovely place to be for adults and kids, with its long sandy beaches and proper Cornish eateries.
If you’re staying at our Perran Sands Holiday Park, it’s only 24 miles away, so it’s easy to get to for a day out. Looking for interesting things to do? Padstow could be just where you need to be.
National Lobster Hatchery
Right by the estuary in Padstow, you’ll find this award-winning centre of conservation. It’s one of the world’s only conservation projects that’s open to the public. It’s rare you’ll get a chance to see lobster babies up close, but here you’ll get to experience the full life cycle of lobsters including the pregnant mama lobsters and lots of other coastal creatures. Find out what the conservation work involves and how the Hatchery supports the local fishing community. To get here, head to the south quayside next to Padstow’s main car park.
For a truly unique experience, you can adopt lobsters! Name a single, a pair, or a group of lobsters and receive all the information about when and where they get released into the wild. It’s the perfect gift from The Little Shop of Lobsters!
Retallack Aqua Park
For heart-pounding things to do in Padstow, book a spot in advance at this adventurous aqua park that feels like you’re in an episode of Total Wipeout! It’s a series of inflatable obstacle courses set on the water, suitable for all ages.
You’ll get a wetsuit as part of your ticket price and there are changing rooms and lifeguards at work so you can take a splash in safety. If inflatables don't float your boat, why not try wakeboarding instead? You’re bound to work up an appetite, so stop by the cafe to refuel with food and drinks.
Prideaux Place
Did you know that the same family has lived at this Elizabethan manor house since 1592? Now, the house is open for you to experience first-hand. There’s limited on-site parking for visitors during the week. Take a stroll around the beautiful grounds that overlook a local ancient deer park that dates back to Roman times. The gardens were restored to their former glory by the same expert who restored the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Tom Petherick. Inside the house, you’ll find an engaging mix of time periods, including an armoury that’s home to England’s oldest cast ion cannon.
Prideaux Place has its own furry little celebrity—a teddy bear called Me Too! It belongs to Nicholas Prideaux-Brune and has even had a book written about his adventures. Pick up your own copy at the gift shop.
Buttermilk Artisan Confectionery
Fudge is to Cornwall what fish is to chips—you can't imagine one without the other. That’s why when you’re looking for things to do, Padstow’s original fudge shop is a must-visit. It originally opened in 1964, run by two ladies who used to make treats in the house above the shop. Now, it’s family-owned with all the quaint charm you’d expect, with a huge selection of treats. Tempting fudge in 50 flavours, honeycomb, coconut ice, and way more for the most discerning sweet tooth. The friendly staff are more than happy to answer any questions you might have about the shop’s history, too!
For those who might normally miss out on traditional treats because of food intolerances, Buttermilk now creates its own free from chocolate and treats too, so everyone gets to leave with a smile on their face and a bag full of goodies.
Padstow Museum
Right next to Rick Stein’s famous restaurant, you can find this gem of a local museum. Born from an idea by local shipwright Bill Lindsey, the local community opened in 1971 and dedicated it to local maritime history. Explore maritime artefacts and exhibitions and learn about folklore, the fishing industry, and Padstow in wartime. Collections include old fishing gear, ship equipment, wartime memorabilia, and even old-fashioned products and posters. You’ll be surprised at how much there is to see inside this small space!
It's completely free to enter and run by an independent charity, so leave a donation, if you can.
Padstow Harbour
West Quay, Padstow PL28 8AQ
At the heart of Padstow, the bustling harbour is filled with fishing boats, pleasure craft, and day-trippers. Whether you're taking a ferry to Rock, embarking on a boat trip, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, it's a fantastic spot to soak in the coastal charm.
With plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops lining the waterfront, it’s easy to spend hours here watching the world go by. Grab a traditional Cornish pasty, find a bench, and take in the picturesque setting of this iconic harbour.
Camel Creek Family Theme Park
Just five miles outside of Padstow, thrills await! Camel Creek won’t disappoint—whether you’re an adrenalin junkie, film buff, or animal lover, there’s something to satisfy the whole family’s tastes. There’s a Sky Ride, log flume, clown coaster, and mega slide for thrillseekers. For those who want to keep their feet firmly on the ground, visit Pets Corner, the reptile house, or the stables in Creature Creek. And for little ones, there’s a playhouse, shows, and cuddly characters to meet and greet you.
You’ll never go hungry during your visit. Camel Creek has plenty to tickle your tastebuds, with food outlets dotted around the park offering pizzas burgers, snacks, and drinks.
Make sure to book in advance - the park gets busy!
The Camel Trail
Boatyard, S Quay, Padstow PL28 8BL
One of Cornwall’s most popular recreational routes, the Camel Trail is a scenic 18-mile path that follows a former railway line through the countryside. Starting in Padstow, it winds through Wadebridge and Bodmin before reaching Bodmin Moor.
With no steep inclines, the trail is ideal for walkers and cyclists of all skill levels. Bike hire is available near the start, making it easy to explore the trail at your own pace. Along the way, enjoy stunning river views, spot local wildlife, and take in the peaceful beauty of Cornwall’s landscape.
Padstow to Rock ferry
There's nothing quite like bobbing along in a boat in Cornwall, and a pleasant ferry crossing from Padstow to Rock, over the River Camel, couldn't be easier. The ferry service runs most days and for a reasonable price. Hop on at Padstow Harbour and cross into Rock: a beautiful village with a glorious beach and estuary views.
Stein's Deli
Quays, Station Road, Padstow PL28 8DA
A trip to Padstow wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a Cornish pasty, and Stein’s Deli is the place to go. This charming shop, owned by celebrity chef Rick Stein, offers a selection of high-quality pasties, including the classic steak variety.
In addition to fresh bakes, the deli is packed with gourmet treats, from homemade chutneys to international ingredients inspired by Stein’s travels. Whether you're grabbing a bite for a picnic or picking up some fan-favourite jams, chutneys, and relishes, this deli is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates mouth-watering food.
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New holiday homes from £39,995 – UPDATED 28 February 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As of 28 February, price is available at Kiln Park and Perran Sands
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
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Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset for 7 years’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset for 7 years’ is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Victory Ashberry 3 Bed or equivalent grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion.
An example of how ‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset for 7 years’ operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Victory Ashberry 3 Bed holiday home at Seton Sands with a monthly site fee of £667.08 (includes purchasing discount of £17.08) and monthly letting income of £673.17. The monthly difference equates to £23.17, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2025 figures.
Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Victory Ashberry 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading as of 2024.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Owner’s 'Appy Meal Deal for £7.99
All day, every day* - collection only
Only available to Owners staying on park
Any pie, fishcake or large sausage, small chips, any side and a soft drink
Upgrade to regular cod or haddock^ for £3
Owners can use their discount on top of this offer
Only available in Cook’s venues and not from our Cook’s vans. Offer includes any pie: Minced Beef and Onion, Chicken and Mushroom, Steak or Cheese and Onion, fish cake or large sausage (choose from plain or battered) and a portion of small chips, any side and a soft drink. Sides include curry sauce, gravy, beans or mushy peas. Drinks include any soft drinks can or bottled water (excludes Coca Cola). ^Some of our Cook’s do not serve haddock - in this case, an upgrade to cod will be the only option of fish to purchase. Dishes cannot be changed or swapped for alternatives. Non-inclusive of upgrades or add-ons. Discount is applied if all dishes and drinks are purchased together, and this must be in the same transaction. Available daily, subject to venue opening hours. *Some of our Cook’s do not open for lunch trading. Offer is only available when ordering via QR code, app or website and for collection only. Offer is only available to Owners who are staying on park. Owners can use their owner discount on top of this offer. Offer may be withdrawn or changed at any time, without notice. Offer is valid March 2025 - November 2025. Prices include VAT. This offer can be used in conjunction with all other offers. Offer not available in any on-park franchises. Haven Holidays is a trading name of Bourne Leisure Limited. Registered office: 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL. Registered in England and Wales, no 0401166
Pre-owned holiday homes from £24,995 – UPDATED 17 January 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 17 January 2025, price is available at Kiln Park and Perran Sands.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.