Private Tour
The Padstow History Walk - Tales, Tales and Traditions
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Join local guide John for a fascinating 1.5-hour history walk through the charming Cornish town of Padstow. Discover the stories hidden within its narrow streets, historic harbour, and centuries-old buildings as you explore how this picturesque fishing port has evolved over time.
As you stroll along the waterfront and through the town’s winding lanes, John will bring Padstow’s past to life — from its maritime heritage and tales of seafaring adventure to the traditions, trades, and people that shaped the town’s unique character.
Highlights include:
• The historic harbour, once bustling with fishermen and traders.
• Insights into Padstow’s shipbuilding and fishing industries.
• Stories of local legends, smugglers, and sailors.
This relaxed and informative walk offers a perfect way to experience Padstow’s rich heritage, blending storytelling with beautiful scenery. Suitable for all ages, the walk covers a gentle route lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Gratuities
What To Expect
Padstow
The walk begins at the White Shelter on North Quay Parade, near the ferry landing. Here, we’ll explore the ancient origins of Padstow — from its early trading links with distant civilizations to the arrival of St Petroc, whose legacy shaped the town’s spiritual heritage.
Padstow
We now move along North Quay toward the venerable inner harbour, which has been home to ancient buildings with a secret passageway, a ghost and Monks. At this time we also learn about the poverty of Padstow before the coming of the railway.
Options
The Padstow History Walk - Tales, Tales and Traditions
Reviews
20 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Highly recommended
MAJ01,
Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thank you John for such an informative, entertaining and fun walk through some of the history and stories of Padstow. Highly recommended.
A Must Do Padstow Experience
saracW7145XW,
Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a great way to see Padstow with a local, John, who knew all the history and stories. John had a lovely way about him and obviously liked people. He seemed to know everyone in town and his cheery banter with local folks going about their business was amusing. A great way to hear the stories and see hidden parts of Padstow with charming company.
Highlight of Padstow
raylyn663,
Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fantastic way to spend some time learning about the very interesting history of Padstow. The walk was led by John, a friendly and interesting man whose passion for the other side of Padstow was evident. Highly recommended. Thank you. Ray & Lyn
Entertaining and informative
Theladylikesaspa,
Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00John is entertaining and informative, I’ve lived in the area for quite a few years but I learned many new things about Padstow. Highly recommend it.
Padstow History
FellowTraveler251198,
Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a great way to spend 80-90 mins with a passionate and knowledgeable guide. John came across so clearly with his cheerful manner and knows so many of the local people too.
If you love Padstow and history this is for you!
Vicki C,
Aug 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We have visited Padstow many times but had our eyes opened on this walking tour. It was wonderful to learn about Padstow’s rich history with photos and facts aplenty. Many of the beautiful buildings were explained and there were lots of fun facts along the way. John was a great guide, thank you!
Fabulous walk round old Padstow
markjP3941MY,
Aug 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a fabulous insight into Padstow's history, John was a great host with a passion of everything Padstow. Highly recommend 👍
An absolute delight!
S9741TYsophiet,
Aug 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00John is an absolutely brilliant story teller and has such a passion for Padstow that shines through! It's a really comprehensive tour that covers hundreds of years of history! Thank you John!
This is Johns Padstow
ar5m1th,
Aug 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00John has a passion for the History of Padstow. His knowledge of the area is incredible and he was able to convey his stories with ease. All the locals knew him which made the tour more personally as we walked.
Padstow has a rich history!
Guide03704197467,
Aug 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00John was a friendly, knowledgeable local (for the past 40 years or so). We were amazed by the rich history of this port, going back 1,000s of years! So much has happened in Padstow that you wouldn’t otherwise think of until the signs and other evidence are presented! John did this eloquently and amusingly.
Related Experiences
Operated by The Padstow History Walk