Explore the spectacular North Cornwall coast via the miles and miles of coastal footpath, or stroll around the lanes of Padstow or Port Isaac, browsing the shops whilst looking out for famous faces. Cornwall’s historic past can be taken in; see the great house and estate at Lanhydrock, or Tintagel Castle – was it really the birthplace of King Arthur – or look down on stone age villages from the top of Roughtor, on Bodmin Moor. And the recommended ‘Wet and Wild’ experiences offer new ways to get up close and personal with the landscape and all things natural.

Beaches

The nearby beaches of Polzeath, Rock and Daymer have miles of golden sands, and offer surf, windsurfing, sailing and safe bathing. Port Gaverne adjoining Port Isaac has a sheltered rock and shingle beach. Between Padstow and Newquay are a series of bays with more surfing, sand dunes and fun to be had. When you travel up the coast you can find Trebarwith, Bude and the beautiful Bossiney.

Pubs and Restaurants

You can eat really well in Cornwall! Celebrity chefs such as Rick Stein have led the way, and really excellent restaurants abound, including Nathan Outlaw’s two restaurants in Port Isaac, The Fish Kitchen and Outlaws New Road. Nearby Rock and Padstow boast famous chefs including Paul Ainsworth at The Mariners in Rock or Rojano’s and No 6 in Padstow. Rick Stein also has his Seafood Restaurant and Cafe in Padstow. When you aren’t looking for Michellin stars then we have a wealth of top-quality local country pubs serving excellent food and locally brewed beer; check out The Red Lion just up the lane in St Kew Highway, and the St Kew Inn at nearby St Kew Churchtown to start.

The Camel Estuary

The estuary is famed for its wildlife, in particular for birds; it is easily accessible for the 5 miles from Wadebridge to Padstow via the Camel Trail, and is very popular for bird watching. Near the sea, between Padstow and Rock, sailing and a wide range of water sports can be enjoyed. On a breezy day the flotillas of dinghys and windsurfers with brightly coloured sails make fascinating viewing.

Walking and Cycling

The coastal footpath offers miles of spectacular walks along rugged cliffs and sheltered coves. A network of rural footpaths crisscrosses the parish. The Camel Trail follows the route of the old branch line for eighteen miles from just below Bodmin Moor all the way to Padstow, following the River Camel; both cycling and walking are encouraged, with cycle hire available in Wadebridge.

Harbours and Towns

Wadebridge is our nearest market town, a thriving local centre with a wealth of local shops and the usual supermarkets. Padstow is centred around its picturesque working harbour, with lanes to explore and many fine restaurants. Port Isaac, famous for TV's "Doc Martin" and the Fisherman’s Friends, has charming cottages in impossibly narrow lanes surrounding its lovely harbour.

Gardens and Houses

Cornwall is famous for its gardens and country houses; nearby, Pencarrow is still a delightful family home with gardens and craft centre well worth a visit. At Padstow, Prideaux House has a wonderful setting with its ancient deer park overlooking the town. Further afield, the National Trust own many fine houses, all open to the public. Gardens such as Lanhydrock, Caerhayes, Boconnoc, Trelissick, Trebah, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are spectacular, particularly in the spring.

History and Legend

Cornwall traces its history back beyond Celtic times, with much archeological evidence of ancient settlements. On the North Coast, nearby Tintagel Castle is the legendary home of King Arthur, whilst the story of Tristan and Iseult is centred on Restormel Castle at Lostwithiel, where Tristan's father, King Mark ruled. Padstow celebrates the coming of summer each May Day with its famous and age old 'Obby 'Oss, which dances throughout the town. In more recent times, the roots of the industrial revolution can be traced through the relics of the deep mining for tin and copper, which have earned World Heritage Site status for Cornwall.

Arts and Culture

Cornwall has a vibrant modern arts culture; look out for many art galleries, and open air theatre on summer evenings There are festivals such as St Endellion Music Festival, Wadebridge Folk Festival and Rock Oyster Festival. Overlooking the Camel Estuary, Poet Laureate Sir John Betjmen is buried in the churchyard of St Enodoc Church. Further west in St Ives, the Tate Gallery celebrates the St Ives School of artists with an impressive programme of contemporary art.