Harlyn Bay was described by the Sunday Times as a “hidden gem” and considered one of the best and safest family beaches in Cornwall.

Located just 3 miles from Padstow, Harlyn beach is a wide expanse of yellow sand backed by dunes. There is ample parking at the beach, toilets and array of food outlets to cater
for every need. If you fancy a sundowner drink overlooking the spectacular beach there are a choice of venues serving food & alcohol. Harlyn is also a dog friendly beach, one of only a handful in the area.

The crescent shaped bay is popular with surfers, paddleboarders and kayakers. Harlyn Surf School has had a base there since 1994 and is the original surf school having now expanded into offering surfing,
coasteering, sit on top kayaking and stand up paddleboarding. To compliment these activities, they also have a great range of hire kit from surfboards, wetsuits, bodyboards, kayaks and paddleboards. Their fantastic team of instructors are highly trained and guarantee to provide a memorable watersports experience. Harlyn Surf School also provide a beach wheelchair free of charge (small donation to charity please). Their office is right on the beach, so not far to walk for your activities!

Waves Surf School also offer surf lessons at Harlyn.  Located on the North Cornwall coast between Newquay and Padstow they are fortunate to be licensed by Cornwall Council to surf a selection of beaches. Most are within close proximity to accommodation around the Padstow area.  This allows them to find you the best waves on any given day. Book in and they will arrange the lessons where the waves are best for you!  Waves Surf School provide the equipment & wetsuits suited to the water temperature throughout the year. So whether you want group or private lessons on your own or you would like to share the fun with friends or family they can cater for your needs.

For those who may not wish to take part in watersports there’s a fascinating combination of rocky shorelines, sand dunes and tide pools to explore and the beautiful bay is also an unbeatable location to just chill and take in the view. From the beach you can walk along to the RNLI Padstow Lifeboat Station just beyond Mother Ivey’s Bay. In 1962 the Lifeboat Station at Hawker’s Cove near Padstow was decommissioned and replaced with one at Trevose Head. In 2006, the latest Life Boat station was built to accommodate the Spirit of Padstow which was placed on service shortly after. Although the station
is not open to visitors, you can go down and watch the Wednesday evening training launches at 6pm. Please contact the station on 01841 520667 for more information.
Further on it is possible to get to Trevose Head Lighthouse via the South West Coast Path and then cut back across inland to Harlyn making a very scenic circular walk of approximately an hour and a half.

Perhaps some of you who would just like to take time to still your mind and body, sit for a moment, breathe and relax after an exhilarating day at the beach. There is no better way to do this than to be enveloped in the heat of a sauna, the health benefits alone have inspired Sauna by the Sea to bring these magical moments for you to easily enjoy right on the beach at Harlyn.

There are some fantastic touring and camping sites to choose from around the 7 Bays between Newquay and Padstow. Below is a list of some of the best in the area:

For Padstow:

Dennis Cove Campsite

Nestled in a valley on the fringes of Padstow and less than a mile to the harbour, Dennis Cove Campsite is a family run site which is the closest campsite to Padstow.  There is private access onto the Camel Trail, an 18 mile traffic free cycle path from Padstow to Wenfordbridge on Bodmin Moor.  Otherwise you can take a 10 minute stroll along the trail into Padstow, a further 20 minute walk takes you to secluded beaches.  With all this on your door step there really is no need to get back behind the wheel of your vehicle once you’re here.

The campsite caters for up to 100 pitches across 5 separate camping fields.  Open from Easter to the end of September with 28 electric hook-ups, the campsite is perfect for tents, campervans and smaller motorhomes (up to 7 metres) and caravans.

Facilities include toilets, showers, washing-up, laundry, drying room, freezers for ice packs, chemical waste disposal, gas exchange, battery charging, 24 hour warden and above all a team of staff who’ll do their utmost to ensure your needs are catered for, as best they can.  Pets are welcome.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/dennis-cove-campsite/

Padstow Campsite

Seasonal pop-up site offering generous pitches for tents, campervans, and motorhomes, with all-inclusive access to on-site toilets, showers, and hot water facilities. Perfect for hikers, cyclists, and families alike. Pets are also welcome!

Perfectly positioned on the edge of Padstow just one minute from Tesco and the bus stop.  From here you can take the number 57 bus which runs between Padstow & Wadebridge and the number 56 bus which can take you to all of the beautiful bays in between Padstow & Newquay.

Padstow Campsite is just a 10-minute stroll down to the harbour, the Camel Trail, and the South West Coastal Path.

This friendly family run campsite is open from May – end Sept and also offers self-contained motorhome and campervan overnight parking all year round from £12 per night.  Pets are welcome.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/padstow-campsite/

Padstow View Campsite

Padstow View Campsite is a family friendly pop up site just a few miles from Padstow.

Guests can pitch wherever they choose on the grass or opt for the bell tent. There is a secure dog walking field for exclusive use, free wifi and hot food served every night.  Fresh coffee, milkshakes and smoothies are available on-site.

The number 57 bus stop is a minute’s walk from the site, from there you can get into Padstow or Wadebridge for connections to some of the best beaches in north Cornwall.  Dogs are welcome.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/padstow-view-campsite/

For Harlyn and Trevone:

Trevose View Farm & Campsite

Trevose View Farm is a fabulous family run pop up campsite which is open for 60 days throughout the year.

Ideally situated for Harlyn Bay and Trevone and just a 10 minute drive to Padstow.  The site has access to footpaths taking you to Harlyn Bay and Trevone Beach, both great for surfing, body boarding, SUP or just a lazy day on the beach.  Both beaches are life guarded throughout the summer and have some superb eateries right on the beach.  For those wanting to walk just that bit extra, you can carry on along the path into Padstow.  From Trevose View Farm to the Southwest Coast Path is just a short 5 minute walk through their fields from there the walking is endless!

There are 50 un-allocated grass pitches in a spacious open field, perfect for tents and tourers alike, simply turn up and choose where you would like to be!  Hot showers & washing up facilities. On-site pizza kitchen, cocktail bar and small cafe.  Raised Fire Pits and BBQs are allowed.

They also have 5 meter luxury bell tents for hire.  Remove the stress of putting a tent up and down. Provided will be a double bed, mattress, bed side tables, drawers, 2 x camp chairs, fire pit and a fire starter pack. Additional single bed mattresses are available upon request. Max 4 people per tent.  However, please bring your own bedding/sleeping bags as well as  any camping/cooking equipment you require.

Dogs are more than welcome.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/trevose-view-farm/

Trewithen Caravan & Camping

This family run caravan site enjoys 360 degree views over the local countryside and down the valley to Harlyn Bay. It is a large, peaceful site with space to relax. There are free hot showers in a new modern toilet block with laundry and a disabled/family shower room.  A deep freeze is available for campers to freeze ice packs.  The site is within easy reach of Harlyn beach, Trevone and Padstow is only 2 miles away.

There are 30 touring pitches, for caravans & tents (12 with electric hook up). Prices start from £24 (off season) per pitch, per night (depending on pitch and party size). Electrical pitches from £28 per night.  There is an extra 4 acre meadow for guests to stroll, walk the dogs and enjoy the wildlife.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/trewithen-farm-caravan-camping/

For Porthcothan and Treyarnon:

Treyarnon Bay Holidays

Treyarnon Bay Holidays is Cornish family run business and offer camping, static caravans and cottages all just a few minutes from Treyarnon Bay and Constantine Bay beaches and the South West Coast Path.  The bus stop that can go either to Padstow or Newquay is located just a few minutes walk away at Constantine Bay.

Whether you’re camping under canvas or touring with a caravan, this campsite has everything you’d expect to make the most of your trip to Cornwall.  81 camping pitches, including 26 electrical hook ups and some of the best views in Cornwall, so you can wake up to the sparkling Atlantic Ocean every day.

The campsite is open from 1st April to 30th September. Well behaved Dogs are welcome – except in July or August.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/treyarnon-bay-holidays/

Macdonald’s Farm

A family-run, 5 star Visit England rated, touring park and campsite situated in Porthcothan.  They offer grass pitches for motorhomes, caravans and tents with electric hook up, or stay in one of the beautiful bell tents in their brand new glamping area or their new sea view apartments.  Porthcothan, only a 10 minute walk away, is a delightful little bay, great for bathing, surfing and snorkeling.  The number 56 bus stop is just outside, from here you can take to bus anywhere between Newquay and Padstow.

They welcome both families and couples looking for a chilled, relaxing holiday – small groups are allowed but please call to confirm before booking as it is a quiet family-run site.  Sleep under the Cornish stars, eat some of the best local food in the wonderful farm garden, meet the animals, ride a pony or enjoy a drink or two from their Sundowner Bar. Live music events are also held here on a regular basis during the summer months.  Pets are welcome,.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/macdonalds-farm/

Carnevas

Carnevas Holiday Park is a 4 star AA rated campsite located in unspoilt countryside a short drive to the wonderful beaches of Porthcothan and Treyarnon. Surrounded by a wealth of opportunities for enjoyment – breathtaking cliff walks, a working farm, golf, renowned surf beaches, safe & sandy family beaches, historic houses, a wide range of natural history, and of course, the legends of Cornwall to investigate.

Over recent years the Pawley/Brewer family have developed this Cornish holiday park to an award-winning standard and provided a range of well-kept facilities to make your break relaxed and enjoyable. They pride themselves on personal service and communication with their visitors and for this reason, do not offer online bookings, preferring to maintain that all important connection with visitors which means that so many return to Carnevas year after year.

The on-site facilities include a comprehensively equipped laundry, the very well stocked shop and the play equipment which is always popular with the children. Whether it be a weekend break in the caravan park or campsite or a long stay in the luxury self catering holiday cottage, they are sure to have something for you.  Pets are welcome.

Also recommended, of course, is their very own social hang-out, The Jolly Roger, which is situated in the grounds of Carnevas Holiday Park.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/carnevas-farm-holiday-park/

Trevean Caravan & Camping Park

Trevean Caravan & Camping Park is a quiet, family run park situated within a short distance of no less than seven sandy beaches, surrounded by both sea and countryside views.

Established for over 30 years the site has developed alongside the family farm, which is now being worked by the 4th generation of the family. Originally a mixture of Sheep and Dairy, the farm is now home to a herd of Organic Beef cattle.  They are turned out for most of the camping season so you will be able to see them grazing along with Furious, the resident Simmental Bull.  Keep your eyes open for other four legged residents too.  There is a picnic area and a 5 acre recreation field which can be used for dog walking and games. From Whitsun to September there is a small shop selling a range of items including newspapers and fresh bread, you can also freeze ice packs here. At reception you can charge your laptops and phones

Close to the Southwest Coast Path and the spectacular North Coast, Trevean Farm is also just 4 miles from Padstow harbour and  St Merryn village is just 1 mile away with it’s general store, pub, Rick Stein’s The Cornish Arms, petrol garage, restaurant, a fabulous Fish & Chip shop and Spring House Chinese Takeaway.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/trevean-farm-caravan-camping-park/

For Wadebridge/Padstow:

Camel Creek Glamping & Camping

Set in the heart of Cornwall’s beautiful countryside, Camel Creek Camping & Glamping offers the perfect base for a fun-filled, relaxing getaway. They have a range of grass, hard-standing, and all-weather touring pitches, plus luxurious glamping options like Bell Tents, Yurt Tents and Safari Lodges.  And the best part? Camel Creek Adventure Park is right on your doorstep, offering unlimited fun and excitement for all ages. Ideal location for visiting all of the 7 Bays between Padstow & Newquay as well as Polzeath & Port Isaac via Wadebridge.  Pets are welcome.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/camel-creek-camping-glamping/

For Polzeath:

Valley Caravan Park

Valley Caravan Park is situated in a valley leading down to the sea, with the entrance only 200 yards from Polzeath’s sandy beach. They have tried to keep the park as natural as possible, encouraging wildlife – especially mallard ducks, geese, squirrels, rabbits and moorhens.  At the Valley Caravan Park you will find a lounge bar with a six day license with entertainment in high season, a conservatory, and a cafe with seating area and games area. Free wireless is available in the bar and cafe areas, there is a launderette and children’s play area.

Due to the wildlife, DOGS are NOT permitted on the site (except guide dogs).

padstowlive.com/accommodation/valley-caravan-park-self-catering-apartments/

Purely Glamping:

Padstow Creek Glamping Pods

Character luxury glamping pods within easy reach of Padstow. Each sleeps 2 in comfort or 2 adults & 2 children.

Tucked away in a secluded spot less than a mile away from Padstow, these exclusive pods are nestled in a magical valley next to a former mill house set amongst bluebells and primroses and other wild flowers. In the evenings experience bats flying around and owls hooting, in the morning you may be lucky to wake up to a roe deer drinking from the stream.  Within walking distance from the popular harbour town of Padstow and Rock and located in a wooded valley next to a former mill house, each glamping pod has it’s own kitchen and dining area, shower and W/C, comfortable double bed & sofa bed. The area extends outside with a large decked area for you to enjoy the long summer evenings or cosy on up to your own firepit. At the end of a long farm track it is a delightful environment for children and animals, free from passing traffic.

You can enjoy a fire pit where you can sit and watch the evening sun going down in a sheltered spot, the kids will love toasting marshmallows. Magnificent beaches are no more than 2 miles away where you can ride the Atlantic waves or simply walk along the coastal path and view the stunning scenery. There are wonderful walks from the properties which are surrounded by beautiful countryside.  Ample parking and dog friendly in some pods.

padstowlive.com/accommodation/padstow-creek-glamping-pods/

There are many reasons to visit Polzeath, the main one being that it is one of the north coast’s best surfing destinations and is a real Cornish gem.

The beach

Though Polzeath’s watersports are its main attraction, the beach is still ideal for a warm, lazy day in the sand.  At low tide there are rock pools to explore underneath the cliffs, where little ones can peek at some of the sea life waiting to catch the next tide out. Swimming is generally safe, and the beach is lifeguarded in the summer daily from 2 May – 27 September, also at Easter and October half term.

Why not give surfing a go?  Wavehunters teach surfing for all abilities on Polzeath beach. If you’ve never tried it before and are keen to take the first leap to your feet or you’re looking to master a manoeuvre or perfect your style, they can help. Their experienced surf coaches will tailor their instruction to your individual needs. They’ll start by showing you the essential ‘pop-up’ before hitting the waves. You’ll have fun paddling the turquoise waters and catching waves as they head to shore. You’ll soon catch the surf bug and will be throwing shakas before you know it!  Otherwise, you could just try some body boarding, at Wavehunters you can hire boards and wetsuits.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay, Valley Caravan Park, a family run business since 1945, is just 200 yards from the beach and offers touring, camping, static caravans and also has self-catering apartments. This is a wonderful family friendly site with all the amenities you need as well as entertainment during the Summer months.

For independent accommodation visit John Bray Cornish Holidays who have a collection of over 300 properties that can be found in arguably some of the best coastal locations – Rock, Daymer Bay, Port Isaac and Polzeath. You can choose from romantic cottages to luxurious beachfront properties sleeping 2 – 14 people, so there is something for everyone.

Other activities

Saunas by the Sea have an eco-friendly wood fired sauna right on Little Polzeath beach, yes on the beach!  So go along and soak up scenic views while reaping the rewards of relaxation and recovery. Whether you’re after post-surf warmth, a moment of mindfulness, or a wellness ritual, you won’t be disappointed.

The Point at Polzeath is a gorgeous holiday resort boasting a range of activities.  Their main accolade is the18 hole golf course with amazing sea views over the bay and Pentire Point. There is a state of the art gym, fully equipped with cardio and resistance machines plus free-weights up to 40kgs; a new studio containing pump bars, TRX, kettlebells, aerobic balls and more; a 16-bike spinning studio which is also available to use outside of the spinning class times; an 18m pool heated to 30°C; a Jacuzzi pool heated to 39°C; a traditional wooden sauna; a eucalyptus infused steam room, plus 2 padel tennis courts, just to name a few!  There are fitness classes available, as well as 4 types of specialist massage sessions to improve you wellbeing and help you relax.  The Point at Polzeath is a short drive to the beach but you can also walk there in around 20-30 minutes.

Eating out

Polzeath has numerous eateries, ice-cream parlours and a pub, however, the stand out restaurant with the best sea view in Polzeath is The Cracking Crab.  With a name like “The Cracking Crab” you can guess what they do? Crab and seafood and a lot of it! There’s seafood by the bucket load and juicy West Country steaks off the grill, so why not check out the menu? Vegan & Vegetarian options are always available. The bar is always fully stocked with chilled local beers, ciders and wine, perfect out on the sundeck soaking up the views. They’re so close to the beach you can practically feel the sand between your toes as you tuck in, and the breath taking panoramic view of the beach and surf is equal to any.  With it’s cliff-top location it is a hot spot for breakfast, a leisurely lunch watching the surf, a resting place for a cup of tea after a walk along the coast path or an awesome place to watch the sun setting over sundowners before supper.  Perfect for groups of friends, families and couples, whether you’re popping in for a quick cup of tea and cake or celebrating a special occasion over dinner.  Dogs welcome!

Cornwall’s Camel Creek Named Among World’s Top 25 Amusement Parks!

One of Cornwall’s leading family attractions, Camel Creek Adventure Park, has been recognised on the global stage after being named among the Top 25 Amusement and Water Parks in the world in the prestigious Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.

The park has been awarded the coveted “Best of the Best 2026” title by Tripadvisor, placing it in the top 1% of attractions worldwide.

This accolade is based on consistently outstanding visitor reviews and ratings over a 12-month period, making it one of the most respected honours in the global tourism industry.

Located in the heart of Cornwall, Camel Creek has become a firm favourite for families seeking a full day of adventure, combining rides, animal encounters, indoor play and seasonal events. The award highlights the park’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality experiences and memorable days out for visitors of all ages.

Park Director Graham Hayes said:

“We are absolutely delighted to be recognised as one of the top 25 amusement and water parks in the world. To receive a ‘Best of the Best’ award from Tripadvisor is a huge honour, especially as it is based on genuine feedback from our visitors.

This achievement is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team, who go above and beyond every day to create magical experiences for our guests. We are incredibly proud to represent Cornwall on a global stage and would like to thank everyone who has visited, supported us, and shared their positive experiences.”

The announcement places Camel Creek alongside globally renowned attractions, reinforcing its reputation as one of the UK’s must-visit family destinations.

Book a visit now:  Camel Creek Family Adventure Park

Looking for somewhere to take the kids for the day? There’s a whole range of things to do in Padstow and the surrounding area to entertain them. From theme parks to sporting adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in every weather.

CAMEL CREEK ADVENTURE PARK

Camel Creek is a vibrant and welcoming visitor destination, experienced in delivering great adventures throughout the year. Learn about Cornwall’s myths and legends through a wide variety of rides from roller coasters to raging rivers and enchanting animals to energetic adventure play! After all that excitement, refuel in their cafe or hide from the rain in their indoor play.

Opening times vary throughout the year so make sure to check (and book) online to avoid disappointment!

CRAZY GOLF

Traditional family fun with a modern twist!  Greens of Padstow have created a Golf Garden with sculptures and specimen planting to accompany your journey around their unique 18 hole mini golf course. The space is constantly changing throughout the seasons as the new planting comes to life!  No booking required – just turn up and play!  Dog friendly cafe with magnificent views.

CAMEL SKI SCHOOL

Camel Ski School is the UK’s largest waterski centre offering waterskiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing, inflatable rides and boat charters.  Camel Ski also offers inflatable rides on its new Hydras, perfect for families and groups of friends who are looking to have a blast on the Estuary whatever the weather. Great fun for anyone aged 8 and over.  If you are looking for something a little more sedate then Camel Ski runs paddle boarding and kayak sessions.

ST EVAL KARTING

St Eval Karting is a fantastic outdoor go karting track that promises adventure and excitement for all. With different tracks for different ages, the whole family can have a go and unleash their competitive side! There’s a circuit for 3-6 year olds, a cadet circuit for 7-11 year olds, a family track for 12 years and above an adults only track for the slightly more experienced drivers! Definitely promises to be a day of adventure and adrenaline.

TREVONE BAY ADVENTURES

Take the adventure to the next level with Trevone Bay Adventures. Have a go at sea kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, coasteering and canoeing whilst enjoying the beauty of the Cornish coast and all that it has to offer.

THE NATIONAL LOBSTER HATCHERY

If you are looking for something a bit different to do, pop along to the award-winning National Lobster Hatchery Visitor Centre in Padstow.  Learn about lobsters, local marine life and also find out about the pioneering marine conservation work undertaken in order to enhance the wild lobster population in our seas. See baby lobsters, only days old!

BIKE RIDING

There are plenty of opportunities for bike riding from Padstow, Wadebridge or Bodmin.  The Camel Trail is 18 miles of traffic free cycling and bikes can be hired in Padstow and Wadebridge. As it was an old railway line, the route is nice and flat. If your children prefer something a little more challenging then drive out to Cardinham Woods where they have several bike tracks to choose from including some pretty hard mountain biking routes!

SURFING

Learn to surf with one of our recommended surf schools which operate in and around Padstow.  The best surfing beaches are Polzeath, Harlyn, Trevone, Constantine, Treyarnon & Porthcothan.  Wavehunters are based on Polzeath beach so if you are heading in that direction or staying nearby then head down to the beach, you cannot miss them!  Harlyn Surf School is based right on the beach at Harlyn, next to the car park.  Waves Surf School is located on the North Cornwall coast between Newquay and Padstow and they are fortunate to be licensed by Cornwall Council to surf a selection of beaches. Most are within close proximity to the Padstow area – let them find you the best waves on any given day, they will arrange the lessons where the waves are best for you!

Paul Ainsworth is thrilled to announce that he has collectively raised over £53,000 in donations, alongside nearly £11,000 in Gift Aid having recently completed a triathlon. The proceeds will go to the Children’s Cancer Ward at the Royal Cornwall Hospital.

‘Your unwavering support throughout, and since, has been an incredible source of inspiration for me and a powerful motivator, constantly pushing me to achieve our fundraising goal.’ ‘ I can’t tell you how much your incredible contributions will positively impact the lives of Cornwall’s young cancer patients and their families.’

He completed the Ironman 70.3 triathlon in his fundraising endeavors, referring to it as ‘one of the toughest, and greatest, personal achievements of my life’.

An incredible amount has been raised for an incredible cause – well done everyone!

ONE FEEDS TWO @ Rick Stein’s

In 2022 Rick Stein partnered with One Feeds Two to support their mission to provide nutritious school meals to children living in poverty. This partnership sits alongside various charity and community projects which they support including annual charity lunches, coffee mornings and donations to local causes like the Fishermen’s Mission and the National Lobster Hatchery.

By dining at various Rick Stein’s establishments you have helped to donate 200,000 school meals to children in developing countries. 

What is One Feeds Two?

One Feeds Two is a non-profit charity, partnering with food companies who donate meals to children living in poverty.

When you order a meal or a product with the One Feeds Two on it, you’re not only feeding yourself, but providing a school meal to a child living in one of the poorest countries.

How does it work? 

When you choose one of the selected dishes or items below a meal is provided for a child living in poverty:

The Seafood Restaurant: Battered Fish and Chips

St Petroc’s Bistro: Tuna Steak

Sandbanks: Battered Cod and Chips

Barnes: Battered Cod and Chips

Winchester: Battered Cod and Chips

Marlborough: Battered Cod and Chips

The Cornish Arms: Cod Curry

Rick Stein’s Café: Cod Curry

Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips: Battered Cod and Chips

Rick Stein Fistral: Battered Cod and Chips

Rick Stein’s Fishmongers & Seafood Bar: Seafood Platter

Rick Stein’s Deli: Rick Stein Water Bottle or Coffee Cup

For more information click here.

Whilst in Padstow, visiting Prideaux Place is a must do. Here is a great suggestion of a circular walk taking in some spectacular sea and estuary views along the way.

Starting from the Padstow Tourist Information Centre head towards the Ship Wrights Pub on the other side of the harbour.  As the name suggests, this was once a workshop and warehouse supplying timber to the boatyards of the town.  Padstow was at one time an exceptionally busy ship-building port with 5 yards operating here in the 1850s.  Continue past the pub up the slope towards the War Memorial.  From here you will have amazing views of Rock, the Camel Estuary and out to sea.  On your left you will see some benches, walk past these and follow the path until you reach St Saviour’s Lane, take the first right on to Fentonluna Lane.  After a short while you will come across Fentonluna Well, the well’s granite arch is dated 1592 and commemorates the completion of Prideaux House.  The stones came from the original gate house entrance which was demolished in the 1750s.  This is supposedly the original well which served the early Priory.

At the end of Fentonluna Lane turn right and you will see the splendour of Prideaux Place!  This Elizabethan Manor House was built in 1592 on the site of a monastic grange, previously inhabited by the former Barton of the Monks of Bodmin.  Today the house is still owned and lived in by the Prideaux family after 14 unbroken generations.  It is open to the public at times throughout the Summer, check their website for details.  Many big screen productions have been filmed here.

Another great reason to visit Prideaux Place is their 22 acre Deer Park. The herd of fallow deer at Prideaux Place is thought to be one of the oldest park herds in the country. The Park itself has been dated back to its enclosure by the Romans in 435AD though not necessarily in its present form.  Legend has it that if the deer die out, then so does the Prideaux family. In February 1927 the herd was supplemented with a new master buck sent via the Great Western Railway by King George V from the herd at Windsor. Unfortunately the animal did not get the chance to improve the bloodline as was hoped, for the following morning the gamekeeper set out to cull the old master buck and shot the King’s buck instead!

Enjoy the sight of the deer whilst taking a light lunch, a glass of wine or afternoon tea in the licensed Terrace Tearoom overlooking the Deer Park with its views across the Camel Estuary.  Feeding times are very popular with visitors and you can even feed them yourself!  Feeding times vary so if you are planning your visit to include this experience then please check the time beforehand by contacting the Administrator on 01841 532411 or by email office@prideauxplace.co.uk

Don’t forget to book a yourself a tour of the House too!   Open Easter to October, check website for times.

Rock is a great place to start a walk along the coast path. Not, as many people think, a rock, the village of Rock takes its name from the quarry (now the car park) which provided stone to act as ballast for ships. An earlier name, dating back to 1337, was Black Tor, which is why the passenger ferry, which makes the frequent crossing from Padstow, bears that name.

Setting off from Rock through the sand dunes (or on the beach at low tide) you will reach Bray Hill. Climbing to the top to experience the stunning views (or keeping to the path around the front or back of the hill ) you can catch a glimpse of St Enodoc Church. This wonderful old building, parts of which date back to the 12th century, was once overwhelmed by the surrounding sand dunes, so much so that the priest had to be lowered in through a trapdoor in the roof to conduct a service once a year! (this was required if the church was to remain active.) A beautiful spot, the church is now famous as the burial place of John Betjeman, the Poet laureate, who spent much of his life in this part of Cornwall.

From the church, continue along the coast path between Daymer Bay and Polzeath where you come across the less well-known Greenaway Beach – a quiet place ideal for a picnic and rock pooling, which has a history of shipwrecks, the most recent of which happened in 2013. If you look closely, you can see the remains of one of those shipwrecks.

Carrying on, you will arrive at Polzeath. On the cliffs, over looking the beach is The Cracking Crab -a café and restaurant perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner!

The beach at Polzeath is the only surfing beach in the Camel Estuary and next to it, the smaller, New Polzeath, also known locally as ‘Baby Beach’ is where you will find one of the new ‘Saunas-by-the-sea‘!

To finish your walk, retrace your steps back to Rock or, if you want to continue, head up onto Pentire Point. With stunning views back towards Padstow, this dramatic headland is steeped in history that is not always obvious to the naked eye. Look out for the plaque which marks the spot where, in 1914, Laurence Binyon wrote the famous war poem “For the Fallen” with the famous line that we recall every Remembrance Day – ‘We will remember them’. From this spot you can also see why people might be reminded of a sleeping dragon! The spectacular headland called ‘The Rumps’ is the site of an Iron Age hill fort and the system of ditches and ramparts that protected it can still be seen. There was a mine at Pentireglaze which in the mid 1800’s produced 955 tonnes of lead ore and 19,065 ounces of silver so keep your eyes peeled! The National trust has recently opened a new café nearby – perfect for a coffee stop before heading back to Rock.