We all know that Cornwall sees its fair share of rain, even in the summertime, and Padstow is no exception. Personally, we think there’s something oh-so-romantic about the mizzle and getting cosied up. However, that doesn’t mean you have to stay inside! Here’s our Cornish curation of things to do when it’s raining.
Check out the local shops and boutiques
From Buttermilk fudge to books galore, Padstow has the sweetest collection of shops and boutiques. You’ll find tasty treats, page-turners, stylish clothing, and perfect Cornish gifts to take home. Fancy treating your pooch? Pop into Slicker’s Dog House. And don’t forget to fuel up with a piping hot pasty— The Chough Bakery is our favourite!
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Treat yourself at a cosy cafe
Padstow has a delightful selection of cosy cafés serving Cornish cream teas, soups, toasties, and classic seafood options. Our favourites include Cherry Trees Coffee House, Green’s of Padstow, Caffè Rojano by Paul Ainsworth, and Sabzi Deli. Just remember, if you’re having a cream tea, it’s jam first, then cream!
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Indulge in a spa day
What better way to relax than treating yourself to a spa day? Enjoy the sound of rain from indoors while relaxing in the pool, sauna, or steam room. Then, unwind with a rejuvenating massage or facial. Our favourite nearby spas are St Moritz—with sensory showers (ooh, ahh!)—and Treglos Glo Spa near Constantine Bay.
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Visit Padstow Museum
A fabulous option for families or solo adventurers. Discover Padstow’s maritime and social history—from shipbuilding and smuggling to the heroic tales of lifeboat crews. With interactive, hands-on exhibits, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained, too.
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Take a trip to the Padstow Lobster Hatchery
This marine conservation and education charity is located down by the harbour. It’s great for kids—you’ll meet baby lobsters, pregnant mamas, giant lobsters, and other weird and wonderful sea creatures. Learn about their conservation work and how they support local fishing communities. A truly unique experience!
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Get creative with a pottery painting class
Fancy something hands-on and creative? Take a short drive to Wadebridge and visit Kiln Craft, where you can paint your own ceramic piece. It’s suitable for all ages and a great way to create a handmade souvenir inspired by the Cornish coast.
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Become a beer connoisseur at Padstow Brewing Company
Take a tour of Padstow Brewing Company and discover the journey from barley grain to finished pint. Sample a variety of beers and learn about their styles and ingredients. Your tour ticket includes a discount on purchases. They also run fun events like quizzes and live music— check out their website to see wasson!
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Visit Prideaux Place
Family- and dog-friendly, Prideaux Place is a great rainy-day option. Explore this historic manor (built in 1592), stroll the gardens (waterproofs recommended!), and take in views of the deer park and Camel Estuary. Enjoy a cuppa in the charming café, and don’t miss their quirky teddy bear collection.
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Discover your eye for art at The Drang Gallery
Whether you’re an art lover or just curious, The Drang Gallery features vibrant exhibitions from top contemporary artists, including sculpture, photography, and mixed media. It’s the perfect spot to find something colourful and inspiring on a grey day.
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Make your own bottle of gin at Tarquins Padstow Gin School
Learn the process and experimentation it takes to create your own custom bottle of gin. You’ll get to taste test a range of Tarquins’ gins and tonics along the way, and you can even bring along your own botanical if you’d like to include it in your custom bottle, then finish it off with the iconic wax seal. It’s like chemistry class at school but a lot more fun! (and boozier).
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Learn culinary wizardry with a cooking class at Rick Stein’s Cookery School
You’ve probably heard of the legendary Rick Stein or even eaten at one of his restaurants in Cornwall. Now you can experience how to cook like a pro, taught by expert chefs while enjoying views of the Camel Estuary. Of course, you’ll get the chance to sit down and enjoy the food you cook. A delicious way to dodge the rain, learn something new and maybe even impress your friends and family after your trip!
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Take a surfing lesson at Harlyn Surf School
You’re going to get wet anyway, right? So you may as well get a wetsuit on, and let the expert instructors at Harlyn Surf School teach you how to ride waves! Afterwards, you can warm up in the sauna and grab yourself a delicious hot chocolate from Beach Box Cafe.
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Embrace the elements with a sauna and sea swim
If you’re not up for surfing, why not just book into Sauna by the Sea at Harlyn beach and brave the rain for a quick dip in the sea! Knowing you have that toasty warmth to return to, you’ll find the sea swim in the rain that much more inviting. If you fancy being a little more adventurous, head to Trevone Natural Sea Pool nearby.
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Catch a movie at the cinema
What better option is there on a rainy day? While the Cinedrome in Padstow is no longer open, there is a wonderful cinema just along the road in the town of Wadebridge. So grab a bucket of popcorn and settle down to watch the latest blockbuster. A great option to keep the kiddos entertained!
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Take the kids swimming at Coast Swimming Pool
If you’re not a sea swimmer – don’t worry! Coast Swimming Pool at The Retreats Padstow Holiday Park provides the perfect alternative where you can stay warm inside and escape the rain. Just make sure to book in advance.
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Whether you choose something adventurous, something cosy, or to curl up in your accommodation with a good book and a takeaway pasty – there’s something to suit every mood and weather change during your stay in Padstow.
