Beyond the food and the Camel Trail, Padstow has a genuinely good spread of things to see and do, from a lobster conservation charity to an Elizabethan manor house on the hill above town.
The Lobster Hatchery & Prideaux Place
What is the National Lobster Hatchery?
A marine conservation charity and visitor attraction right on the harbour, working to rear young lobsters and release them back into the wild to help support local stocks.
Can I adopt a lobster in Padstow?
Yes, the Lobster Hatchery runs a lobster adoption scheme as a fundraising initiative, a fun, slightly quirky way to support the conservation work and take home something to show for it.
What can I see and do at Prideaux Place?
Prideaux Place is a grand Elizabethan manor house overlooking the town, with a deer park, gardens, and a genuinely striking interior, open to visitors on selected days through the season.
Is there a local museum in Padstow?
Yes, a small local museum covers the town’s maritime and social history, a good stop for context on everything from the fishing trade to the Obby Oss tradition.
On the Water
What boat trips and sea safaris leave from the harbour?
Several operators run trips directly from Padstow harbour, ranging from relaxed estuary cruises to wildlife-spotting sea safaris along the coast.
Can I go fishing or shark-trip sailing from Padstow?
Yes, dedicated fishing charters and shark-watching trips run from the harbour in season, a proper day out for anyone keen on something more active than a standard boat tour.
Can I learn to surf near Padstow?
Yes, surf schools operate at several of the nearby Seven Bays beaches, offering lessons for complete beginners through to those looking to improve.
Culture & Rainy Days
Are there ghost walks or historical tours in Padstow?
Themed walking tours run seasonally in Padstow, often covering its smuggling legends and maritime past, check current local listings for what’s on during your visit.
What art galleries are in Padstow?
Several independent galleries around the town centre showcase local Cornish artists, well worth a browse alongside the harbourside shops.
What are good rainy-day activities in and around Padstow?
The National Lobster Hatchery, the local museum, Prideaux Place on the days it’s open, and Padstow’s many cafes and galleries all make for a good wet-weather plan without needing to drive far.
Guides
The Ultimate Padstow Travel Guide: 100+ Questions Answered
The History of Padstow
Attractions & Activities in Padstow
Beaches Near Padstow
The Camel Trail Guide: Padstow
Food, Drink And Rick Stein in Padstow
How To Get To Padstow
The best accessible places in Padstow
The best places to park in Padstow
