Padstow

Who goes there?

Food lovers, families, surfers and art enthusiasts all flock here in summer months.

Where in the world?

Padstow is situated in the southwest of England on the north shore of Cornwall.

When to go?

The climate is temperate with warm summers and cool wet winters. The hottest months of the year, and the best time for hitting the beach, are from June to September, with temperatures reaching an average high of 26°C (78°F) in August. However, English summers are often unreliable and rainfall can be frequent throughout the year, so always remember to pack a jumper in case skies become overcast.

Beach

Padstow is not only a culinary centre (see Eating Out), courtesy of a certain Mr Stein, but it also lies between some stunning beaches. To the west lie Constantine and Harlin Bay, great for swimmers and surfers, while further along the coast is the less busy Porthcothan. On the other side of the estuary is Polzeath, perfect for novice surfers.

Beyond the beach

For a completely different vibe, head down the coast to Britain's surfing capital of Newquay. Set among some fantastic beaches, it has lots of surfing facilities, brash nightlife, seaside amusements, zoo, aquarium, adventure sports and Jamie Oliver's renowned Fifteen restaurant.

Family fun

You can take boat trips along the Camel estuary, choosing between stately passages around the islands, or adrenaline-revving speedboat trips. There are several surfing schools that offer lessons and equipment hire, including Surf's Up. As this is foodie heaven, you can also take a one- or two-day cookery course at the Padstow Seafood School. Bikers will love the 24km (15-mile) riverside Camel Trail track, which starts in Padstow and runs to Poley's Bridge on Bodmin Moor.

Retail therapy

Where foodies go, chic boutiques follow, at least judging by Padstow's bevy of shops. You can buy antiques, fine china, jewellery, and, of course, all things surf related. There are numerous galleries selling local artists' work, and if all this has given you an appetite, Stein's Deli (South Quay) has upmarket foodstuffs.

Eating out

Rick Stein's Padstow empire means you're spoilt for choice when it comes to top-notch eats. Try St Petroc's Bistro (New Street), Stein's Fish & Chips (South Quay) or the Seafood Restaurant's simpler sister restaurant, Rick Stein's Cafe (Middle Street). Seafood is the main deal, and there are several other non-Stein places also serving up fine eats, such as No 6 (6 Middle Street) and the tiny Margot's Bistro (11 Duke Street).

Getting around

You can amble around the town on foot, while buses will take you down the coast, stopping at various beaches, and other buses head inland to Bodmin Parkway.

Splashing out

Beg, borrow or steal to bag a table at the Seafood Restaurant (Riverside), Rick Stein's flagship eatery, serving sublime seafood and dishes created from fresh Cornish produce.

Flying in

Newquay Cornwall Airport (NQY)

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