Padstow

After our antics in Ilfracombe, we reached Padstow an hour ahead of schedule and circled the bay like an aircraft awaiting clearance to land, all the while keeping a close eye on the depth above the notorious Doom Bar.

Padstow, tucked into the Camel Estuary on Cornwall’s north coast, feels like a true reward after a testing passage. With its narrow tidal entrance, bustling quayside, and foodie reputation, it was the perfect place to celebrate Svea’s third birthday.

⚓ The Approach

Timing is key when sailing into Padstow. The entrance lies between Doom Bar (a notorious sandbank responsible for centuries of shipwrecks) and Stepper Point. Visiting yachts can only enter on a rising tide, as the harbour dries at low water. Once inside, the inner harbour offers secure moorings and excellent shelter. The harbour team are friendly and efficient, which is necessary as this is an extremely busy harbour in the summer, and we were rafted up two abreast.

🛟 Harbour Life & Dog Policies

Dogs are welcome around Padstow Harbour, though they should be kept on a lead along the busy quayside. Many pubs and cafés not only tolerate dogs but actively cater to them, with water bowls and the occasional treat. The harbour itself is secure, and pontoons are easy for larger dogs to board from. If moored against the North wall as we were, you may end up rafting up. There are ladders to get ashore.

🐾 Dog Walks

Padstow is a paradise for dogs. Just a short stroll from the harbour, you’ll find vast white beaches and dramatic cliff walks. With leads optional for the well-behaved, Svea relished the freedom to roam.

The Camel Trail, a former railway line along the estuary towards Wadebridge, offers long, gentle walks with sweeping views. Closer to the harbour, sandy stretches open up at low tide, perfect for paws and play. And just across the water, a short ferry ride to Rock reveals even more wide-open sands and adventurous coastal paths. Svea was in her element.

🍴 Dog-Friendly Pubs & Cafés

Padstow is a food lover’s paradise, with Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth putting it firmly on the culinary map.

• The Shipwrights – A classic pub right on the harbourfront, with hearty food and a warm atmosphere. Dogs welcome inside and out.

• The Old Custom House – Another harbour front favourite, dog friendly and always buzzing.

• Cherry Trees Coffee House – Perfect for breakfast or coffee and cake, with dogs allowed.

• The London Inn – A traditional pub tucked just off the quay, small but very welcoming to dogs.

• The Harbour Inn - Welcoming pub with cosy seating offering local beers from St Austell. Pete particularly liked the Tribute Pale Ale. Staff love dogs and gave Svea a lot of attention.

• St Petrocs Bistro - One of three Rick Stein restaurants in Padstow. A dining room dedicated to dog owners and exceptional food was a fantastic way to celebrate Svea's third birthday - she even got a small doggy cake!

  
  
  

  

  

  

  

Padstow offers the perfect mix of adventure under sail and comfort ashore. With its harbour-side buzz, endless estuary walks, and dog-friendly welcome, it’s a stop that lingers long in the memory — and for us, one of Cornwall’s most rewarding harbours after the drama of Ilfracombe.