Things to do in Padstow

Right by the estuary in Padstow, you’ll find this award-winning centre of conservation. It’s one of the world’s only conservation projects that’s open to the public. It’s rare you’ll get a chance to see lobster babies up close, but here you’ll get to experience the full life cycle of lobsters including the pregnant mama lobsters and lots of other coastal creatures. Find out what the conservation work involves and how the Hatchery supports the local fishing community. To get here, head to the south quayside next to Padstow’s main car park. 

For a truly unique experience, you can adopt lobsters! Name a single, a pair, or a group of lobsters and receive all the information about when and where they get released into the wild. It’s the perfect gift from The Little Shop of Lobsters!

Did you know that the same family has lived at this Elizabethan manor house since 1592? Now, the house is open for you to experience first-hand. There’s limited on-site parking for visitors during the week. Take a stroll around the beautiful grounds that overlook a local ancient deer park that dates back to Roman times. The gardens were restored to their former glory by the same expert who restored the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Tom Petherick. Inside the house, you’ll find an engaging mix of time periods, including an armoury that’s home to England’s oldest cast ion cannon.  

Prideaux Place has its own furry little celebrity—a teddy bear called Me Too! It belongs to Nicholas Prideaux-Brune and has even had a book written about his adventures. Pick up your own copy at the gift shop.

For heart-pounding things to do in Padstow, book a spot in advance at this adventurous aqua park that feels like you’re in an episode of Total Wipeout! It’s a series of inflatable obstacle courses set on the water, suitable for all ages.

You’ll get a wetsuit as part of your ticket price and there are changing rooms and lifeguards at work so you can take a splash in safety. If inflatables don't float your boat, why not try wakeboarding instead? You’re bound to work up an appetite, so stop by the cafe to refuel with food and drinks.

Fudge is to Cornwall what fish is to chips—you can't imagine one without the other. That’s why when you’re looking for things to do, Padstow’s original fudge shop is a must-visit. It originally opened in 1964, run by two ladies who used to make treats in the house above the shop. Now, it’s family-owned with all the quaint charm you’d expect, with a huge selection of treats. Tempting fudge in 50 flavours, honeycomb, coconut ice, and way more for the most discerning sweet tooth. The friendly staff are more than happy to answer any questions you might have about the shop’s history, too! 

For those who might normally miss out on traditional treats because of food intolerances, Buttermilk now creates its own free from chocolate and treats too, so everyone gets to leave with a smile on their face and a bag full of goodies.

Right next to Rick Stein’s famous restaurant, you can find this gem of a local museum. Born from an idea by local shipwright Bill Lindsey, the local community opened in 1971 and dedicated it to local maritime history. Explore maritime artefacts and exhibitions and learn about folklore, the fishing industry, and Padstow in wartime. Collections include old fishing gear, ship equipment, wartime memorabilia, and even old-fashioned products and posters. You’ll be surprised at how much there is to see inside this small space! 

It's completely free to enter and run by an independent charity, so leave a donation, if you can.

Just five miles outside of Padstow, thrills await! Camel Creek won’t disappoint—whether you’re an adrenalin junkie, film buff, or animal lover, there’s something to satisfy the whole family’s tastes. There’s a Sky Ride, log flume, clown coaster, and mega slide for thrillseekers. For those who want to keep their feet firmly on the ground, visit Pets Corner, the reptile house, or the stables in Creature Creek. And for little ones, there’s a playhouse, shows, and cuddly characters to meet and greet you.  

You’ll never go hungry during your visit. Camel Creek has plenty to tickle your tastebuds, with food outlets dotted around the park offering pizzas burgers, snacks, and drinks. 

Make sure to book in advance - the park gets busy!