Padstow : The History of a Cornish Town

Through the study of archaeological evidence, Padstow can trace its history back almost 5,000 years. In 520AD, St Petroc, according to legend, landed from Ireland on the North Cornish coast and chose a site on a hill to build his monastery. In the medieval period, the port was importing goods from Ireland and the Mediterranean and exporting slate, copper, tin and fish. Shipbuilding was an important industry in the early nineteenth century and, when the railway arrived in 1899, this marked the beginning of tourists visiting Padstow. The town remains a working fishing port and the spectacular views of the Camel estuary, the attractive harbour, narrow winding lanes, old cottages and the beautiful ancient church add to its charm. The Padstonians are a close-knit community, some families having lived there for generations. They all ensure that Padstow's traditions will be kept alive for many years into the future.