Exploring Padstow Harbour: Shops, cafes and restaurants

Padstow Harbour is a picturesque Cornish destination brimming with vibrant shops, delightful cafes and enticing restaurants. As I walked around the harbour, capturing its essence through photos, I discovered many unique establishments worth highlighting.

Restaurants and Cafes in Padstow

At the heart of Padstow’s culinary scene is the famed Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant, an iconic spot known for fresh seafood dishes. For Italian flavours, both Caffe Rojano and Pucellis Italian Restaurant offer delightful menus in welcoming environments. If gourmet burgers or fresh fish dishes are your preference, don’t miss Burgers and Fish restaurant.

Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant

A celebrated culinary landmark, renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and coastal charm. Established in 1975, the restaurant reflects Stein’s passion for sustainable fishing and bold, flavorful dishes, drawing inspiration from global cuisines while celebrating Cornwall’s rich maritime heritage. Overlooking the picturesque Padstow harbor, the restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere with its nautical decor and warm hospitality.

Caffe Rojano

Created by acclaimed chef Paul Ainsworth, is a vibrant and welcoming Italian-inspired bistro that blends rustic Mediterranean charm with Cornish flair. Located just off the town’s picturesque harbour, the restaurant offers a relaxed yet stylish setting with modern interior with generous glass and stainless steel fishes, wall hung with frame photos and glass conservatory seating where diners can watch the world go by.

Pucelli’s Padstow

Pucelli’s Restaurant in Padstow is a beloved family-run Italian eatery, offering authentic, homely dishes in a warm and welcoming setting. Located just a short stroll from the harbour, this cosy restaurant serves up classic Italian flavours with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients—think wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and rich risottos.

Burgers and Fish

A must-visit spot for lovers of hearty, high-quality fast food with a Cornish twist. Located just moments from the bustling harbor, this casual eatery specializes in two crowd-pleasing classics: juicy, hand-pressed burgers and fresh, sustainably sourced fish. With a focus on local ingredients, friendly service, and a relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect place to refuel after a day exploring Padstow—whether you’re craving a gourmet burger or the catch of the day.

For casual dining and beverages, visit The Stable Pizza and Cider House for mouth-watering pizzas accompanied by refreshing cider. Meanwhile, Rick Stein’s Cafe offers a more relaxed Stein experience, perfect for a leisurely brunch or coffee.

The Stable

A lively waterfront pizzeria and cider house, renowned for its delicious wood-fired sourdough pizzas and impressive selection of ciders. Located right on the harbour, the restaurant offers stunning views alongside a relaxed, rustic vibe with long communal tables and a buzzing atmosphere. Apart from pizza, The Stable serves hearty breakfasts, juicy smash burgers, fresh salads, nachos, fish and chips, pies and wraps. With its focus on sustainability, craft cider, and bold flavours, it’s the perfect spot for a casual, fun-filled meal in the heart of Padstow.

Rick Stein’s Cafe

A more casual but equally delicious alternative to his famed Seafood Restaurant, bringing the celebrated chef’s signature coastal flavors to a relaxed, bistro-style setting. Located on Middle Street, just a short walk from the harbor, the café serves a menu of fresh, uncomplicated dishes inspired by Stein’s global travels and Cornwall’s exceptional local produce.

Fresh seafood fans shouldn’t overlook Prawn on the Lawn, an intimate spot famed for seafood platters and tapas-style dishes. Sweet-toothed visitors will adore Pendragon’s Ice Cream and Fudge for their delightful treats, while coffee lovers can unwind at Cherry Blossom Coffee House.

Cherry Blossom Cafe House

Pendragon’s Ice Cream and Fudge

Traditional pub enthusiasts can choose between historic venues like The Old Custom House, The Old Ship Hotel, and The London Inn, each offering authentic British pub atmospheres, hearty food, and local ales.

The Old Custom House

A charming waterfront restaurant and bar housed in a historic 19th-century building, offering stunning harbor views and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and modern British cuisine. With its rustic-chic décor, a huge conservatory seating with views, friendly service, and prime location overlooking the Camel Estuary, The Old Custom House is a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, sunset drinks, or a memorable dinner in the heart of Padstow. Apart from food and drink, the Old Custom House also offers accomodation with its 12 en-suite rooms by the sea and dog friendly both in the bar area and rooms.

The London Inn

Name	Address	Postcode	Phone	Website
Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant	Riverside, Padstow	PL28 8BY	01841 532700	rickstein.com
Caffè Rojano	9 Mill Square, Padstow	PL28 8AE	01841 532796	paul-ainsworth.co.uk
Pucelli’s Restaurant	9 South Quay, Padstow	PL28 8BL	01841 533313	pucellisrestaurantpadstow.co.uk
Burgers & Fish	1A The Strand, Padstow	PL28 8AJ	01841 532884	burgersandfish.com
The Stable Pizza & Cider House	4 Mill Square, Padstow	PL28 8AE	01841 726506	stablepizza.com/padstow/
Rick Stein’s Café	10 Middle Street, Padstow	PL28 8AP	01841 532700	rickstein.com
Prawn on the Lawn	11 Duke Street, Padstow	PL28 8AB	01841 532223	prawnonthelawn.com
Pendragon’s Ice Cream & Fudge	6 The Strand, Padstow	PL28 8AJ	01841 532325	Pendragon’s Facebook Page
Cherry Blossom Coffee House	9 Market Place, Padstow	PL28 8AL	01841 532846	[No website available]
The Old Custom House	South Quay, Padstow	PL28 8BL	01206 695622	oldcustomhousepadstow.co.uk
The Old Ship Hotel	Mill Square, Padstow	PL28 8AE	01841 532357	oldshiphotel-padstow.co.uk
The London Inn	6-8 Lanadwell St, Padstow	PL28 8AN	01841 531129	londoninnpadstow.co.uk
Chip Ahoy	8 Broad St, Padstow	PL28 8BS	01841 534753	[No website available]
Padstow Tasting Room: Broad Street	4, 6 Broad St.	PL28 8BS	07873 590728	padstowbrewing.co.uk

 

Shopping and Boutiques in Padstow

Padstow boasts a variety of charming shops and boutiques. Art lovers and craft enthusiasts can explore the Padstow Craft Fair or browse lovely Cornish artwork at Whistlefish. Those seeking quality outdoor gear and apparel will appreciate Mountain Warehouse, Trespass, and the surf-focused Ann’s Cottage Surf Shop.

Fashion lovers can explore casual wear at Fatface and stylish offerings from Seasalt Cornwall. Boutiques like Aloft and Fusion provide chic clothing, accessories, and unique gifts. For surf-style clothing, Jam Industries and Animal offer trendy and practical apparel.

Homeware enthusiasts have delightful choices with Stein’s Homeware, The Bank homeware, and Abbey Bears, which stocks charming soft toys and gifts. Bookworms will feel at home browsing the shelves of Padstow Bookseller, while those seeking Cornish treats can indulge at Buttermilk Artisan Confectionary or sample unique spirits at Twin Fin Rum Shop.

Stein’s Gift Shop

Stein’s Gift Shop, located in the back streets of Padstow next to Rick Stein’s Café, offers a delightful selection of gifts inspired by Cornwall. Visitors can find jute bags, mugs, kitchen textiles, scented candles, and toiletries, providing a perfect memento of their time in Padstow. The shop also features a collection of Jill Stein’s favorite interiors and design ideas, influenced by her global travels, including Cornish-inspired products. For culinary enthusiasts, the store offers Rick Stein’s coastal-inspired Coves of Cornwall range and stylish kitchen gadgets, making it an ideal destination for those seeking unique gifts or a piece of Cornwall to take home.

Abbey Bears – Specialist Teddy Bear Shop

Established over a decade ago, this charming store offers a wide range of teddy bears and collectibles, including brands like Charlie Bears, Steiff, Merrythought, and Jellycat. Visitors are greeted by Wellington, a 6-foot bear who has been with the shop since its opening and helps raise funds for the charity Animals Asia during the summer months. In addition to teddy bears, Abbey Bears also features a collection of Russian dolls, appealing to all ages as both toys and works of art. The shop is known for its warm atmosphere, delighting both children and adults who often leave with a new cuddly friend to remind them of their visit to Padstow.

Padstow Bookseller

Padstow Bookseller is an independent bookshop offering a diverse selection of fiction, children’s literature, and local interest titles. Located at 1 Broad Street, this family-run store prides itself on personalized service and a deep love for books. Beyond its extensive collection, Padstow Bookseller hosts events, book clubs, and provides pre-order options for upcoming releases. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a welcoming spot to discover your next great read.

Twin Fin Rum Shop

Located near Padstow, the Twin Fin Rum Shop offers a unique selection of exotic rums that blend Caribbean tradition with Cornish innovation. Crafted by Southwestern Distillery, the creators of Tarquin’s Gin, Twin Fin rums are made from carefully selected Caribbean spirits, blended and infused with natural flavors in Cornwall. The result is a range of rich, tropical, and refreshing rums, perfect for cocktails or enjoying with friends at a beach barbecue. Visitors to the shop can explore the diverse Twin Fin lineup, including Spiced Golden Rum, Coconut & Lychee Rum, and Pineapple & Pink Grapefruit Rum, each offering a distinctive taste experience.

Snack lovers and casual diners can grab traditional fish and chips at Chip Ahoy or relax with a locally brewed pint at Padstow Brewing Co. For more independent and local shops, the quaint Cinedrome provides a nostalgic experience. It is no longer a cinema but contains an acoustic laboratory and four shop units. Finally, the community-focused Padstow Institute frequently hosts local events.

The Cinedrome

The Cinedrome was originally opened in 1919 as a music hall and theatre. It was built and operated by William Edgar Pope of Padstow. In 1924 it became a full time cinema named “The Cinedrome” and screened silent movies. From the downstairs foyer and box-office, stairs led into a first-floor auditorium with seating for 275 people, with proscenium width of 18 feet. The decor included sconces and cherubs looking down on the audience from the side walls. The projection box was reached via the rear of the auditorium, A cafe was situated on the ground floor.

The Williams’ family involvement with “The Cinedrome” began in 1947 when Ron Williams along with others purchased the building. In the 1960’s part time bingo was introduced and at this time the name was changed to “The Capitol”, operating in conjunction with the family’s ‘Capitol Theatre’ in St. Austell.

In the early 1970s ownership passed to David Williams (WTW) who continued operating the cinema for a further 38 years, mainly in the summer months and holiday times. A variety of films played several weeks after release, including X certificate films which were screened as late evening shows.

The Cinedrom became its name again in 1997 with the building being completely renovated including a new slate roof, with 153 luxury seats, a new larger screen and Dolby Digital stereo sound. Efforts by applicants to have the building designated a Grate II listed building with English Heritage were not successful.

After 85 years Padstow’s Cinedrome closed in October 2009 with rumours it could become a Wetherspoon’s pub. However in 2011 the freehold was purchased by Padstow residents Rodney and Debbie Morris-Kirby who continue to successfully operate the building which now contains an acoustic laboratory and four shop units.

Name	Address	Postcode	Phone	Website
Padstow Craft Fair	Padstow Memorial Hall, Riverside, Padstow	PL28 8BY	01841 532103	[N/A]
Whistlefish	1-3 S Quay, Padstow	PL28 8BL	01209 314908	whistlefish.com
Mountain Warehouse	17 N Quay Parade, Padstow	PL28 8AF	01841 532115	mountainwarehouse.com
Jam Industries	7 N Quay Parade, Padstow	PL28 8AF	01841 533218	jam-industries.co.uk
Trespass	2/4 Duke St, Padstow	PL28 8AB	[N/A]	trespass.com
Animal	13 Mill Square, Padstow	PL28 8AE	01841 531107	animal.co.uk
Aloft	5 Duke Street, Padstow	PL28 8AB	01841 532548	thealoftshop.com
Fusion	11 Duke Street, Padstow	PL28 8AJ	01841 532444	fusionwardrobe.co.uk
FatFace	13 Duke Street, Padstow	PL28 8AB	01841 533746	fatface.com
Stein’s Homeware & Gift	8 Middle Street, Padstow	PL28 8AP	01841 532700	rickstein.com
The Cinedrome	Lanadwell Street, Padstow	PL28 8AN	[N/A]	[N/A]
Seasalt Cornwall	3-5 Lanadwell St, Padstow	PL28 8AW	01841 533994	seasaltcornwall.com
Buttermilk Shop Artisan Confectionery	1 Chapel Ct, Padstow	PL28 8AW	01208 814505	buttermilk.co.uk
The Bank Homeware	Padstow	PL28 8AL	01841 532044	The Bank Facebook Page
Padstow Bookseller	1 Broad Street, Padstow	PL28 8BS	01841 533804	padstowbookseller.co.uk
Twin Fin Rum Shop	2 Broad St, Padstow	PL28 8BS	[N/A]	twinfinrum.com
Ann’s Cottage Surf Shop	6 Market Pl, Padstow	PL28 8AL	[N/A]	annscottage.com
Abbey Bears	11 Market Place, Padstow	PL28 8AL	01841 532484	abbeybears.co.uk
Just Lily	2 The Strand, Padstow	PL28 8AJ	01841 532307	just-lily.co.uk

 

Visitor Information

Before setting out to explore, a quick stop at the friendly Padstow Tourist Information Centre ensures you won’t miss out on local highlights and events. This is located right next to the harbour parking.

From scenic harbour strolls and delicious culinary delights to charming boutique shopping, Padstow Harbour delivers a memorable experience for every visitor.