Padstow’s history runs a lot deeper than its harbourside shops might suggest, from a 6th century saint to a genuinely strange and wonderful May Day tradition that’s survived largely unchanged for generations.
The Obby Oss
What is the Padstow Obby Oss festival?
An ancient May Day folk tradition where two costumed “Osses”, large hooped figures with a fearsome mask, dance and parade through the streets accompanied by drummers, accordion players, and crowds singing the traditional Obby Oss song.
When does the Obby Oss festival take place?
Every year on 1 May, when the whole town turns out to follow the two Osses, the Old Oss and the Blue Ribbon Oss, through the streets from morning until evening.
Saints, Smugglers & Prideaux Place
Who founded St Petroc’s Church?
The town takes its name from St Petroc, a Cornish saint traditionally said to have founded a monastery here in the 6th century. “Padstow” itself derives from “Petrocstow”, meaning Petroc’s holy place.
Are there legends of secret smuggling tunnels in Padstow?
Yes, like many historic Cornish ports, Padstow has long-standing local legends of smuggling tunnels connecting cellars and the harbour, part folklore, part genuine echo of the town’s trading past.
Who is Prideaux Place named after?
The Prideaux family, who built the house in the 16th century and whose descendants still own it today, making it one of the longest continuously family-owned houses in England.
Did Sir Walter Raleigh live in Padstow?
There’s a local historical association between Raleigh and the town, tied to his role overseeing Cornwall’s tin industry, though the specifics are more local legend than firmly documented residency, worth asking about at the local museum if you’re curious.
Trade, Trains & Old Padstow
What was Padstow’s role in medieval trade?
Padstow was a genuinely significant trading port on the north Cornish coast for centuries, handling goods moving in and out of the region well before tourism became the town’s main livelihood.
When did the railway line to Padstow close?
The branch line into Padstow closed in 1967 as part of the wider Beeching cuts. Its old trackbed now forms part of the route used by the Camel Trail.
Is Padstow part of an ancient pilgrim route?
Cornwall’s saints, including St Petroc, are tied to a wider network of early Christian pilgrim routes across the region, and Padstow’s own religious history connects it into that broader story.
What is the architectural style of old Padstow cottages?
Traditional Cornish stone cottages, many slate-hung against the weather, packed along narrow lanes that wind up from the harbour, a look that’s changed remarkably little over the centuries.
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
