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Padstow
Before the age of steam, Padstow was more important to mariners than modern industrial ports such as Liverpool. It was from here that many Cornish families departed to the Americas and Antipodes.
Padstow on the Camel Estuary, is a fine example of a Cornish-fishing port. The town is largely unspoilt, with a beautiful harbour. There are good shopping facilities, a cinema, cafes and restaurants.
Padstow is a heavenly jumble of houses, quays, boat slips, cafes and restaurants, gift and craft shops, a wine merchant, bookshops, holiday flats, grocers, gown shops, newsagents, accountants, estate agents, a chemist, homemade fudge shop and even a book maker.
The site of Padstow was well chosen by its forefathers. Settled into a narrow gulley on the West side of the River Camel estuary we are well sheltered from the prevailing South - West winds and the air is balmy.
Upcoming Events
Obby Oss Festival - Friday 01 May 2026
The festival takes place on May Day every year. It entails two separate processions that make their way around Padstow on circuits that take twelve hours to traverse. Each procession represents a different half of the town's community. Only those whose families have lived in Padstow for at least two generations are permitted to take part in the processions. Each procession includes an 'Obby 'Oss, a hobby horse consisting of an oval frame covered in black oilskin, which has a small horse's head in the front with a snapping jaw. This is led by an individual known as the Teaser, who is dressed in white and carries a painted club. The procession also contains a retinue of white-clad individuals, some playing accordions, melodeons and drums.
This retinue sings a local version of a Mayers' song. At times this tune becomes a dirge, at which the 'Obby 'Oss sinks to the ground and lies flat. When the chorus becomes triumphant again the 'Oss rises and continues along the procession.
Padstow to Rock Charity Swim - Sunday 12 July 2026
Padstow to Rock Swim, the Open Water
fund-raising event.
A unique opportunity to swim one mile from Padstow to Rock across the beautiful Camel Estuary and raise money for the
Marie Curie Charity.
For more infomation click here.
