Padstow and the Camel estuary

We have just returned from a 2 night stay in Padstow, on Cornwall's north coast, only 35 miles from Falmouth. 

Padstow harbour

Padstow is a small village at the mouth of the River Camel, and in summer is a haven for tourists. With a reputation as the seafood capital of the UK, it is noted for TV chef Rick Stein's extortionate Seafood Restaurant (Dover sole and chips £36!). It is also very picturesque, and yesterday we walked along the estuary to the mouth of the river at Stepper Point.

The River Camel estuary

After walking the three miles back to Padstow we took the ferry across the Camel to Rock, then walked a mile through the dunes to the ancient church of St. Enodoc. The church, with its distinctive 13th century crooked spire, dates back to Norman times, and from the 16th century to the middle of the 19th century it was almost completely submerged in sand. Excavated and fully restored, it is associated with the poet John Betjamin, who lies buried in the churchyard.

St. Enodoc's church

During our stay we avoided the over-priced fish and chips at The Seafood Restaurant, and ate at the Hotel Metropole, with great food and views and the excellent little Margot's bistro in town, with food and service second to none. We also recommend the Metropole for its clean and comfortable accommodation.

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