Padstow is arguably Cornwall’s most popular foodie destination, but its historic harbour streets were not built for modern traffic. Driving directly into the harbour in summer is often a mistake that leads to getting stuck in narrow lanes.
The smartest strategy for Padstow is to park on the edge of the town and walk down (it is downhill all the way), or use the excellent Park & Ride service. If you arrive after 10:00 AM in high season, do not even attempt the harbour car park.
Our Top Picks
Save yourself the stress of navigating crowded streets by heading straight to these locations.
- Best for Day Trips (The Smart Choice): Padstow Park & Ride. Located at the top of the hill. It saves you driving into the chaos and includes a bus ride to the harbour.
- Best for The Camel Trail: Railway Car Park. A large council car park right next to the start of the trail and the National Lobster Hatchery.
- Best for Harbour Access (Winter/Early): Harbour Commissioners Car Park. The most central parking possible, right on the quay, but it is premium priced and fills instantly.
Council Long Stay Car Parks
Cornwall Council operates the main large car park near the old railway station (often listed as ‘Padstow Town Car Park’). It is a roughly 5-10 minute flat walk to the harbour edge.
Railway Car Park (Town Car Park)
Postcode: PL28 8BL (South Quay)
Capacity: ~200 spaces
Best For: Cyclists using the Camel Trail and visitors to the National Lobster Hatchery. It is the most “sensible” town centre option as it avoids the tightest streets.
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Link Road Car Park
Postcode: PL28 8AX
Capacity: ~150 spaces
Best For: Overflow for the Railway car park. It is located just behind the fire station. It requires a slightly longer walk into town (approx 10 mins).
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Harbour & Private Parking
These are run by the Harbour Commissioners or private landowners. They are closer to the action but come with warnings about traffic and capacity.
Padstow Harbour Car Park
Postcode: PL28 8BY
Capacity: ~170 spaces
Best For: Direct access to Rick Stein’s restaurants and the ferry to Rock.
Warning: This is the most congested part of town. In summer, pedestrians swarm this area, making driving stressful.
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The Lawns Car Park
Postcode: PL28 8EB
Capacity: ~150 spaces
Best For: A sensible alternative to the harbour. It is located mid-way up the hill near Padstow Social Club. It offers a good balance of location vs. traffic.
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Park & Ride (Recommended)
Padstow Park & Ride (Main Road)
Postcode: PL28 8EX
Capacity: Large Field
Best For: Avoiding stress. Located at the entrance to Padstow near the Tesco. You park in the field and a bus shuttles you down to the harbour. It is often faster than sitting in traffic trying to find a space in town.
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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
