Padstow is one of the most sought-after postcodes in the UK. Staying right in the harbour offers an incredible atmosphere, but it can be noisy in high summer. The alternative is to stay in the surrounding villages (like St Merryn or Harlyn), which offer more space and easy access to the beaches.
From celebrity chef townhouses to historic hotels with panoramic estuary views, here is our curated guide to sleeping in Padstow.
Our Top Picks
These three properties offer the quintessential Padstow experience: luxury, food, and views.
1. Padstow Townhouse (Best for Indulgence)
Run by Paul Ainsworth (of the No.6 restaurant), this is a six-suite boutique hotel that redefines luxury. It is located in the old town, slightly back from the harbour.
- The Vibe: Sumptuous, decadent, and personal. You get your own “kitchen pantry” stocked with treats.
- The Stay: It feels like staying in the home of a wealthy friend. They also offer a private electric car service to shuttle you to the beach or their restaurants.
- Good to Know: It is arguably the best service experience in Cornwall right now.
2. The Metropole Hotel (Best for Views)
You can’t miss this building. The Metropole sits high on the hill dominating the skyline, looking down over the harbour and the Camel Estuary.
- The Vibe: Grand and traditional. It has the feel of a classic railway hotel with high ceilings and lawns.
- The Room to Book: An Estuary View room is non-negotiable here. The view from the bed is like a painting.
- Good to Know: It has its own car park, which is gold dust in Padstow.
3. The Pig at Harlyn Bay (Best Country Retreat)
Located a short 10-minute drive from Padstow, this is the “it” hotel of the moment. Set in a historic house dating back to the 15th century, it overlooks Harlyn Bay beach.
- The Vibe: “Shabby chic” luxury. It focuses heavily on its kitchen garden and food. It’s relaxed, rustic, and incredibly stylish.
- The Stay: Perfect if you want to be near Padstow for dinner but want to wake up to the sound of the ocean and silence.
Stay with a Chef
In Padstow, the line between restaurant and hotel is blurred.
- Rick Stein’s Rooms: Stein owns several properties across town. The Seafood Restaurant has rooms upstairs (classic, nautical), while St Petroc’s Bistro offers a cosy, French-bistro feel with lovely rooms.
- Rick Stein’s Shepherd’s Huts: For something different, stay in his luxury huts located at the Cornish Arms in St Merryn. They are high-end glamping with underfloor heating.
Family & Self-Catering
- Martha’s Orchard: Located in Constantine Bay (near Padstow), these are luxury lodges and cottages. They are high-spec, often come with hot tubs, and are safe for kids to run around.
- Trevose Golf & Country Club: You don’t have to be a golfer to stay here. They offer apartments and lodges with incredible facilities (pool, tennis, and views of the lighthouse).
Parking & Logistics
- The “Town Ban”: Be very careful booking a cottage in the absolute centre of the old town. Many streets are too narrow for modern cars, and parking is non-existent. Always check if the property has a dedicated space.
- The Hill Factor: If you stay at the top of town (like The Metropole), remember it is a steep walk back up after a heavy dinner!
Guides
The best accessible places in Padstow
The best places to park in Padstow
The best things to do in Padstow
The best places to stay in Padstow
