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Padstow - an experience in itself!
The natural beauty of the area - its rugged coastline, sweeping sandy beaches, quiet coves and fabulous walks - are probably its main attraction. But there is much more to do and see.
The centre of all activity is the harbour. Brass band concerts are held regularly, visiting entertainers often perform on the quayside, much social activity is conducted from the harbourside cafés, restaurants and pubs. Treat yourself to a wreck, reef or bottom fishing trip or a fun-for-all-the-family mackerel trip out in the bay. Or try a high-powered speedboat trip or more leisurely cruise aboard the ‘Jubilee Queen' for a trip along the fabulous coastline. And if dry land is more your scene - and wining and dining then there is no better place than Padstow.
Leave behind the high summer hustle and bustle and Padstow steadies to a more leisurely pace. Outside the main visitor season, there's more time and space for everyone to appreciate the true beauty of the area. Spend time soaking up the atmosphere on the quay, watch the nets being mended or the fishing catch landed or just stroll along the deserted shoreline or across the cliff path. This is also the best time of year to enjoy the Camel Trail. Not only is it less congested, but it also passes alongside one of the favourite stopping-off points for migrant wading birds who feed on the fertile mud flats during their journeys to and from the northern breeding grounds.
Even in deepest winter, Padstow's climate brings milder weather and the ‘Christmas Lights',when the quayside, harbour and town are decorated with thousands of creative seasonal decorations and set pieces, have become famous throughout. Mid December is also the time for late night Christmas shopping in Padstow when local bands, street buskers, mulled wine and the Padstow carollers take to the streets. Look out for the Passport to Padstow - a book of discount vouchers, valid during the winter months - perfect for Christmas shopping or an off peak break. Here's some other activities to experience....
Sail, Surf and Ski
The Camel Estuary has excellent water sports facilities - sailing,surfing, water-skiing, wind & kite surfing.
The Camel Trail
Cornwall's most popular free attraction is a safe and level offroad 18 mile walking and cycling route. The trail which is part of the ‘Sustrans'national cycle route starts in Padstow and follows the route of the old railway to Bodmin before moving up to Wenford Bridge near St Breward on the slopes of Bodmin Moor.
Angling
The local coastal waters offer exciting sport to the sea angler. For the more adventurous, regular boat trips operate throughout the summer. Coarse fishermen are also well catered for with several excellent,well-managed and well-stocked lakes within a 12-mile radius. If you would like to know more please contact the Padstow Angling Centre on 01841 532762
The Saints' Way
An ever-popular walk that is gaining cult status among those who complete it - the Saints' Way walk follows the route taken by early Christian saints and pilgrims as they made their way from Padstow to Fowey. It's the perfect way to explore the outstanding countryside between the two coasts. The Saints' Way Guide and Route map can be purchased at the Padstow Tourist Information Centre.
Prideaux Place
Tucked into the hillside above above Padstow sits Prideaux Place, home of the Prideaux family who for centuries owned the port of Padstow. Built by Sir Nicholas Prideaux in 1592, the ‘E'shape plan of its Elizabethan façade is instantly recognizable. Successive generations of the family have extended and embellished the rooms that now boast a variety of styles, from Georgian paneling and Regency gothic plasterwork, to tiny details such as a silver Art Nouveau light switch dating from 1907 when the house was connected to its own ‘power station' in the grounds. The crowning glory of the house has to be the ceiling of the Great Chamber. Dating from the latter part of the 16th century it was for many years concealed behind a false ceiling, now, following careful restoration, the story it depicts of Susannah and the Elders (from the Apocrypha, between the Old and New Testaments) has been revealed for all to see.
Over the past 15 years, much time and effort has gone into restoring the house and grounds at Prideaux Place to their former glory. The crumbling temple has been stabilized, the model dairy is well on the way to being restored and large areas of overgrown woodland are being cleared to reveal pathways and long-lost items of garden statuary. But the focal interest lies with the house and its magnificent collection of porcelain, Royal and family portraits, antique furniture from around the world and family memorabilia, including sepia photographs, well-loved teddy bears and Victorian Scrapbooks. There are also paintings by John Opie, an 18th century artist from St Agnes who went on to become known as the ‘Cornish Wonder', as well as a shimmering mother-of-pearl chest reputed to be from the wreck of a Spanish galleon and a Chinese blue and white dinner service brought back as ballast on a Dutch East Indies spice ship! Prideaux Place is open to visitors - find out more at http://www.prideauxplace.co.uk/
There is lots to see and do in Padstow, but most of all visiting Padstow at any time of year is an experience you and your family will enjoy!!
