Best Things To Do In And Around Padstow

Planning a family holiday in Cornwall? Padstow is packed with old-fashioned seaside fun, outdoor adventures, and just enough rainy-day options to keep little ones entertained whatever the weather. Whether your kids love running wild on the beach, learning about sea creatures, or simply tucking into an ice cream by the harbour, Padstow and its surroundings have plenty to keep the whole family smiling.

Here’s our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Padstow with kids:

1. Cycle (or Stroll) the Camel Trail

The Camel Trail is one of Cornwall’s most family-friendly bike rides. Flat, traffic-free, and full of estuary views, it’s perfect for toddlers in trailers, kids on balance bikes, or little ones pedalling alongside you. Stop in Wadebridge for a picnic or an ice cream to break up the ride.

• Distance: ~18 miles (pick a section for younger children)
• Tip: Bike hire available at Wadebridge and Padstow

2. Crabbing on Padstow Harbour

A classic family activity! All you need is a crabbing line, a bucket, and some bait (bacon rind works wonders). Kids love lowering their lines off the harbour wall and seeing what they can catch. Simple, cheap, and endlessly entertaining.

• Best time: High tide is usually better for bigger catches
• Tip: Bring a small towel and hand sanitizer!

3. National Lobster Hatchery

This small but fascinating hatchery lets kids see baby lobsters up close, learn about marine conservation, and enjoy interactive displays. Perfect for a cloudy Cornish day when outdoor options are limited.

• Location: Near Padstow Harbour
• Tip: Guided tours are available seasonally

4. Family Boat Trips from Padstow Harbour

Hop on a family-friendly boat trip to explore the Camel Estuary and nearby coast. Depending on the season, you might spot seals, seabirds, or even dolphins. Wrap up warm and bring binoculars for a little extra excitement!

5. Play Mini Golf at Greens of Padstow

For some light-hearted family competition, head to Greens of Padstow, a quirky mini golf course set in gardens overlooking the estuary. Afterwards, treat yourselves to cake or ice cream from the café with one of the best views in town.

6. Beach Days & Rock Pooling

No trip to Cornwall is complete without beach time! Trevone Bay, just a short drive from Padstow, is perfect for families with soft sand and rock pools to explore at low tide. Don’t forget buckets, spades, and maybe a wetsuit if your little ones fancy a paddle.

7. Camel Creek Adventure Park

Just a short drive from Padstow, Camel Creek Adventure Park is a family favourite. Think rides, slides, soft play, animals, and indoor activities for rainy days. You can easily spend the whole day here without a single “I’m bored!”

Why Padstow is Perfect for Families

Padstow strikes the perfect balance between classic seaside fun and unique Cornish experiences. From crabbing on the harbour wall to exploring the coast path, there’s plenty for kids of all ages — and enough coffee shops, ice cream parlours, and cosy pubs to keep parents happy too. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Padstow is the kind of place where family holiday memories are made.

Quick Tips for Families Visiting Padstow

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn for mild weather
• How long to stay: 2–3 days is perfect for families
• Parking: Limited in town centre — arrive early or use park-and-ride
• Family-friendly eats: Rick Stein’s Fish & Chips, The Harbour Seafood Café, local ice cream parlours
• Nearby accommodation: Town centre B&Bs, countryside cottages, or family-friendly hotels

Plan Your Visit

Want a handy map of all these locations? Check out our interactive Padstow Family Map to see where everything is.

Have you visited Padstow with your family? Share your favourite spots in the comments below! And if you found this guide useful, subscribe for more family-friendly travel guides across Cornwall and beyond.