Strenuous – Easy

16 June 2025

Port Isaac to Padstow is a long, rewarding stage transitioning from rugged cliffs to estuary calm, with rich history, dramatic views, and a shift in terrain and pace.

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Points of Interest: Port Isaac to Padstow

Here’s what to look out for along the way:

Port Isaac & Lobber Point

Start from the harbour and climb past the 19th-century Fish Cellars and cliff paths above Lobber Point.

Pine Haven, Varley Head & Reedy Cliff

A series of early dips and climbs offers views back over the harbour and along the folded coast.

Kellan Head & Port Quin

A dramatic headland leads to the abandoned fishing village of Port Quin — quiet, sheltered, and steeped in legend.

Doyden Point & Doyden Castle

This headland is crowned by a small castellated folly once used for raucous parties. Nearby are remnants of old antimony mines.

Lundy Bay & Carnweather Point

The path levels above the beach named after Lundy Island, with open grassland and wide coastal views.

The Rumps

A twin-headland Iron Age promontory fort joined by a narrow isthmus — a striking historic site with expansive views.

Pentire Point

A broad, open viewpoint overlooking the Camel Estuary and marking a shift to gentler walking.

Polzeath

A lively surf beach and seaside village, ideal for a mid-walk drink — but no dogs allowed in summer.

Daymer Bay & St Enodoc Church (optional detour)

A beautiful beach walk leads to Rock. Inland lies the sand-buried St Enodoc Church, resting place of poet John Betjeman.

Rock

Sailing haven and holiday hotspot, sometimes nicknamed “Chelsea-on-Sea.” From here, take the ferry back to Padstow.

Padstow

A bustling harbour town with foodie fame, historic charm, and a perfect place to end with a drink and a view.

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Logistics

Sleep Dog Friendly Accommodation	High Street, Padstow Holiday Cottage from Harbour Holidays
Eat & Drink	Numerous options around Padstow ‘By the Ferry’ Cafe (for a bacon roll and coffee while you wait for the ferry!) Shipwrights Inn, Padstow
Travel Transport from Padstow to Port Isaac	Black Tor Ferry (First one at 8am) 96 bus at 9:25 from The Clock Garage (just over a mile walk up the hill from the ferry)

The only bus route through Port Isaac is the number 96, which runs between Wadebridge and Camelford via a very circuitous route.