WINTER WANDER LAND
There’s no denying that Padstow is just gorgeous in the summer with its golden sand and turquoise sea, but there’s still so much to enjoy during the winter months in this beautiful corner of Cornwall. After the bustle of Christmas, with many people joining us from afar to celebrate the festive season, the little fishing village of Padstow is for sure much quieter.
The footprint of Padstow village is tiny in comparison to how famous it is, so this quiet time can often be very inviting to those who prefer to avoid the crowds that you often find during the summer months and school holidays. The narrow streets are dotted with locals and a few visitors and you can sit and enjoy the Harbourside in peace without the clamour of children fighting over ice creams.er it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Some businesses choose to close their doors during January and February to take a break whilst the footfall is low. However many, including us at 17 Duke Street, do stay open and you’ll find a great selection of places to eat and local shops to explore in these months. Some of our favourites include JoJo’s Kitchen, Embers Pizza and Coastal Scandi for beautiful interiors.
GETTING OUTDOORS
Cornish winter days can be every bit as beautiful as their summer counterparts. We aren’t known for getting snow very often but bright sunshine and a brisk breeze can do wonders for the soul. The sunsets and sun rises are pretty dramatic too, watch it come up across the water over Rock and take a hike to the west side of the point to watch it set over the Atlantic. You’ll be treated to a glorious array of pastels and might even hit the jackpot with a moonrise too.
The coast paths are well worn around Padstow and bustle with life during busy times. The winter is a great opportunity to get your muddy boots on and have a good stomp out towards many of the beaches that the surrounding area has to offer without having to dodge wayward children and excited pups.
If you’re a keen cyclist, the camel trail is always open and can be a lovely experience at this time of year whilst the tracks are quiet. Just make sure you’ve got enough layers as some areas are more exposed than others to the wind whipping off the estuary. We can recommend picking up bikes from Padstow Cycle Hire who are open 9am-5pm, then visiting Duke Street for a cup of something hot on your return. If you’re feeling brave, take the trail all the way to Wadebridge (about an hour each way) and join our good friends at Saltbox for a beer and burger.
FOR RAINY DAYS
The tropical gardens of Eden Project can be a joyous respite from the biting wind and rain, just 40 minute drive from Padstow. If you’ve already been that year you can use the same pass again for free (just make sure you pre-book online). The National Lobster Hatchery in Padstow is back open and is a fabulous, unique experience with insight into these beautiful creatures; learn about their conservations efforts and meet the baby lobsters! For contemporary art lovers, the Drang Gallery is a collectors dream. Get lost in their collection of beautiful pieces tailored with a personal service.
And last but not least may we suggest an evening of cocktails and fine wine at 17 Duke Street where we are open until 10pm everyday from February 6th. Our team our always welcoming and you’ll find the cosy bar a welcome retreat at the end of a day outdoors.
So many reasons to visit Padstow in February, get your trip booked now.
