Open 7 days a week 10am - 4pm
Track your lobster

Best things to do on a day trip to Padstow

Have you seen the picture-perfect harbour town of Padstow on TV? Always wanted to visit but not sure how to make the most of this Cornish hot spot with your family? The National Lobster Hatchery are here to help having called the town home since 2000. Ahead of the summer holidays we have compiled a guide to the top 5 things to do on a day trip to Padstow this Summer, including some brilliant activities and the just some of the many incredible local businesses.

Meet a baby lobster.

Ocean and animal fans head to South Quay to meet thousands of baby lobsters in our marine conservation centre. Our busy maternity ward and nursery are a hive of activity as we raise and release baby lobsters into the wild Cornish waters. Our family friendly centre is filled with engaging games and activities on all thing’s sustainability, marine biology and a lot of lobsters. From the 10th July we will be extending our opening hours to 9 – 5pm, 7 days a week

Explore the Camel Trail

Once you have enjoyed all the teeny tiny lobster babies, head next door to our neighbours at Padstow Bike Hire. From here you can begin your adventure of the Camel Trail, a long and breath-taking trail that you can take all the way to Bodmin. Soak up the views in this flat and enjoyable path, 5 miles will take you to Wadebridge where there are plenty of coffee shops and ice cream to fuel the return journey.

Feed deer’s at Prideaux

A hop skip and a jump to the North side of the town brings you to our nearest stately home Prideux Place. This regal residence and its palatial gardens are open all Summer for visitors to experience the history and the grandeur of this iconic building. Top Tip; we timed our recent visit just in time to help the team feed the local deer their lunch, a magical experience for any animal lover.

Take to the sea

If the ocean views are just not enough, head to the harbour and join a safari of the sea with Padstow Sealife Safaris. Their expert guides will show you the local wildlife and the hidden coves on the North Coast, an exhilarating experience for all the family. For an exclusive 10% discount on trips show your NLH pass when booking

Eat the biggest slice of cake

Ice cream take a seat, in Padstow Harbour it is all about the large homemade cakes the team at Cherry Trees café serve. Think towering gateaux’s and full to the brim fruit scones, all washed down with pots of tea and the warm and friendly welcome from the staff of this local favourite.   

A great day out in rain or shine, and accessible by boat, bike, bus and car! We hope to see you soon.