Things to Do near Porthcothan Bay and Padstow
Porthcothan Bay is situated on the Atlantic North Coast of Cornwall 5 miles south of Padstow, and 10 miles to the North of Newquay.
Porthcothan is an un-spoilt bay with a large sandy beach, excellent surfing ( with lifeguards between May & September) and beautiful cliff scenery - so good that the BBC use Porthcothan as one of their locations for Poldark.
There is a fantastic local shop, www.porthcothanbaystores.co.uk which offers Barista Coffees, award winning pasties, ice cream and a host of local produce. St Merryn village is 3 miles away with 2 pubs, The Cornish Arms & the Farmers Arms as well as a village store, a bakery, a petrol station & restaurants & take-away's
The bay is on the North Cornwall Coastal Path - easily accessible from the house, with beautiful coastal walks to Bedruthan Steps - 3 miles, Treyarnon Bay - 2 miles or Constantine & Trevose 3-5 miles.
Things to Do near Porthcothan Bay and Padstow
Tygwella places you on a spectacular stretch of the North Cornwall coast, with beach time, walking, golf, food and family days out all within reach. Use these ideas as a flexible starting point, then check current opening information, tide times, path conditions and safety guidance before setting out.
Enjoy Porthcothan Bay
Begin with the beach on the doorstep. Porthcothan is a sandy bay backed by dunes and cliffs, opening out as the tide falls to reveal more sand, coves and rock pools. It is popular with families and surfers, and beach facilities include nearby parking, toilets and a seasonal store. Always follow current lifeguard advice and check the tide before exploring around rocks or coves.
Walk the South West Coast Path
The Coast Path runs close to Tygwella and provides memorable walking in both directions. Head north towards Treyarnon Bay, Constantine Bay and Trevose Head, or south towards the dramatic coastline around Bedruthan and Mawgan Porth. Choose a distance that fits the whole group, carry layers and water, and check official route updates because coastal erosion can lead to diversions.
Spend a day in Padstow
Padstow combines a working harbour, shops, food businesses and access to the Camel Estuary. A visit can be as simple as a harbour walk and lunch, or expanded with local history, conservation attractions and time beside the estuary. For a larger group, book important restaurant meals in advance and plan transport before the evening.
Explore the neighbouring bays
Treyarnon, Constantine, Booby’s Bay, Harlyn and Mawgan Porth each offer a different coastal experience. Conditions can vary from one bay to another, so choose according to the weather, tides and the ages and confidence of your group. Use lifeguarded bathing areas wherever available.
Play golf at Trevose
Trevose Golf and Country Club at Constantine Bay offers a coastal golf experience close to Porthcothan. Visiting golfers should check current tee-time availability, course information, rates and playing requirements directly with the club. Non-golfers can combine the day with a beach visit or coastal walk.
Make time for food
St Merryn provides nearby village dining and takeaway options, while Padstow offers a wider choice of restaurants, cafés and food shops. Balance special meals out with relaxed evenings at Tygwella, where the kitchen and dining table make it easy for ten guests to cook and eat together.