A charming fishing town in Cornwall has become a favourite among tourists with its beautiful harbour, sandy beaches and culinary scene, making it an ideal holiday escape
A quaint fishing town nestled on the northern coast of Cornwall has become a cherished hotspot for holidaymakers.
Boasting a picturesque harbour, breathtaking sandy beaches, and an emerging food scene led by top chefs, Padstow provides an idyllic escape for those seeking a unique UK holiday experience. As one of Britain’s premier destinations, this coastal gem welcomes an estimated five million visitors annually.
Despite its popularity, Padstow tends to draw smaller crowds than its neighbour, St Ives, according to Leisure Lakes Bikes. It comes after reports of a small fishing village with some of UK’s best seafood but hardly any tourists.
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The town’s scenic harbour, considered one of Britain’s ‘most beautiful harbours’, is situated on the western bank of the Camel Estuary. It’s adorned with sailing boats and radiates a timeless charm, reports the Express.
Padstow’s beaches, including Hawkers Cove, Harlyn Bay and Trevone Bay, are renowned for their stunning vistas, golden sands, and top-notch facilities. These beaches are a hit with families, surfers, paddlers, and kayakers alike.
In recent times, Padstow has earned a reputation as a gastronomic haven. The town’s culinary standing was significantly boosted by the arrival of famed chef Rick Stein, who, along with his wife, opened his flagship seafood restaurant here in 1975.
Stein’s impact can be seen across Padstow, with the town even dubbed “Padstein” thanks to his collection of establishments, including the Seafood Restaurant, Rick Stein’s Café, St Petroc’s Bistro and Stein’s Fish & Chips.
The celebrity chef’s eateries have built a worldwide following for delivering the finest seafood, while his TV programmes like “Rick Stein’s Cornwall” on BBC2 have thrust Padstow into the spotlight.
Beyond its seafood credentials, Padstow features a varied culinary landscape and caters to all tastes, from relaxed meals to fine dining masterpieces. Italian eatery Pucelli and Paul Ainsworth’s Michelin-starred No6 both deliver outstanding gastronomic adventures.
Though Padstow draws crowds, it tends to be quieter beyond the busy summer period, providing a more peaceful and pleasant visit. So if you’re seeking your next holiday hotspot, Padstow deserves a place at the top of your wishlist.
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