Any one been to Padstow this week ?

[Cheeseismymiddlename]

Family are visiting my house in Cornwall this week. They really want to visit Padstow.

AIBU to say give it a miss, the crowds will be overwhelming . Or is it actually ok during term time.

Anyone with covid concerns bear in mind everyone visiting is x2 vaccinated and do lateral flow tests weekly. I know it’s not a guarantee but no one is breaking the rules.

As a bonus, any advice on parking greatly appreciated. It’s been a few years since I visited. Last time I drove to Rock and caught the ferry. No idea why I did this. Does it avoid a headache parking in Padstow itself?

Very busy. Google padstow webcam and look at the one on aspects holidays. It's a great webcam and you can really see how busy it can get even in term time.

Cases in padstow and other tourists areas have increased particularly in hospitality. I live pretty close to Padstow. There's quite a few cases. Particularly young people working in restaurants etc.

Parking can be a problem. There are car parks but they get full pretty quick. There used to be a park and ride up the top but I don't believe park and ride is running currently but the field is still being used as a car park I believe and you have to walk down! Not too far if able bodied.

But yes very busy!

Thank you @Kab129. They have never been to Cornwall and are pretty determined to visit . I’ll pass on the web cam info, very helpful. I remember visiting when the children were small and we literally formed a human chain to avoid losing them . I’m surprised my family want to visit.

Its completely rammed as always. Parking is best done out of town and walking down the steps. But it is very busy.

I hate Padstow for this very reason. A real shame.

I went the week after half term for the afternoon (not my choice!), was absolutely rammed. Plenty of nicer places in the area to visit, avoid!

Echoing my thoughts . Just wanted to check I was being sensible in my advice to them . Thank you .

I never think it's as bad as people make out. The parking is challenging for sure, but wandering around is fine. Busy but not so busy that you can't enjoy it. I would definitely go.

@Kizziebel. I really do keep to my own corner. May I ask your suggestions for places nearby to Padstow they may like .They have never been to Cornwall Andy really do want to experience the whole place as seen on TV if you see what I mean . I’ve had years and years of Cornwall and like the bits I’m familiar with. The bits not on TV .

@livingthegoodlife. Thank you . This is the kind of answer I was hoping for. I don’t want them coming back disappointed when I could have said something .

@livingthegoodlife

I never think it's as bad as people make out. The parking is challenging for sure, but wandering around is fine. Busy but not so busy that you can't enjoy it. I would definitely go.

Maybe in 'normal' times, but these are the times of the 'staycation' I honestly don't think Ive seen it busier

Not sure about Padstow but I have a holiday home near Tenby snd if my experiences of the town itself are mirrored in Cornwall I would stay a million miles away. It is fucking bonkers. Locals say it's busier than they ever remember seeing it, even in the usual high summer.

Only time I ever visited I went on the park and ride which worked well but it was very busy, that was August. I think I’d give it a miss currently as everyone is holidaying in the U.K. this year so even busier

I love Padstow, but find its best to get there early to avoid the crowds who normally converge by 11am. I would avoid weekends too.

The aspects webcam is great for giving a good idea how busy it is.

Just looking at The Aspects Webcam - nobody there! 2100 on. Friday night.

Yes Padstow is a daytime busy thing, people don't browse the shops at 2100 on friday nights!
Newquay and Perranporth are also currently rammed (Newquay is busier than Padstow on a friday night!!!)
Have they watched this show www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000pb6w
Its about the real Cornwall and the extreme poverty, its very interesting.

If they Like Poldark maybe Holywell Bay? Or Chapel Porth area (although this is is busy too). Both have good National Trust Parking. Lanhydrock is good. The Seal Sanctuary is good. Carn Brae for the views? Maybe an evening Padstow trip wouldn't be so busy for chips on the quay if they are super keen? You can park at the top and walk down the steps.

@scully29. Members of my family have watched the Simon Reeve program . I suggested they did as my house is actually not far from some of the areas filmed. I love Carne Brae, I know I’m home when I spot it from the A30!
Will suggest the arrive in Padstow before 11am or visit in the evening .

Also remember the Scottish school holidays start this week so things will be getting even busier.