Sitting along the mouth of the River Camel, close to Rock and Polzeath, Padstow has long been a summer holiday favourite for families and surfers alike. Close to the Eden Project and the famous South West Coast Path, it draws in nature lovers as well as foodies, thanks to its thriving gastronomic scene. We’ve picked out the best hotels in Padstow to make finding that perfect holiday home away from home easier.
There’s something exceedingly charming about the mismatched furniture at Woodlands Country House, a sprawling bolthole nestled on the outskirts of Padstow. You’ll get a good night’s sleep here, thanks to the hotel’s rural location, complete with views of rolling fields to stretch as far as the eye can see. Each of the rooms is comfortable and characterful, but if you have the chance, opt for the Bay Room, which features a cavernous four-poster bed. Make time for their award-winning breakfast, which features homemade preserves, muesli and scones, as well as the usual favourites.
First built in 1825, Coswarth House has plenty of beautiful period features including flagstone floors, intricately carved fireplaces and exposed beams, giving you the feeling you’ve stepped back in time. The antique-style furniture enhances the building’s heritage without sacrificing modern comforts. Only five minutes from the centre of Padstow, guests can hop on a ferry across to neighbouring Rock or head out for a day to Port Isaac or Tintagel.
Run by Paul Ainsworth, Michelin-star chef and culinary king of Padstow, the Townhouse is a haven for foodies. There are six boutique suites, each named after a delectable treat such as popcorn or honeycomb, and they all have unique characteristics such as rotary dial telephones and old trunks for bedside tables. However, there are plenty of modern amenities including smart TVs, super-fast internet and roll-top baths. There’s an honesty bar and kitchen pantry downstairs, as well as Dubarry wellies to borrow for walks along the coast. Breakfast is served at Rojano’s in the square – a short walk or complimentary ride away – and make sure to visit Ainsworth’s Michelin-star restaurant, Number 6.
One of Britain’s most well-known chefs, Rick Stein may have travelled the world in search of new gastronomic delights, but he’s most famous for his skill with fish. It’s not surprising, then, that he has a café with rooms in Padstow, serving up delicious riffs on classic dishes such as masala mussels and noodle soups. The decor of the small but perfectly formed bedrooms is chic and understated – you’ll find wrought-iron beds, open fireplaces and window nooks perfect for reading. Though there’s no room service, guests will enjoy a hamper of delectable goodies on arrival. This is a great spot for couples looking for a romantic weekend away.
Another historic Padstow building, The Old Custom House enjoys views over the picture-perfect harbour. The beautiful bar has the atmosphere of an olde-worlde pub thanks to its exposed beams and open fires and serves up pub classics and seafood, while the Oyster Bar offers the best of local produce and freshly caught oysters. Each of the rooms features a calming, country style with light pastel tones and plenty of natural lighting.
