A surfers’ haven with beautiful coastal walks to nearby Damer Bay and Rock, Polzeath is a small village situated across the Camel Estuary waters from Padstow.
The late poet laureate, Sir John Betjeman, adored the North Coast of Cornwall and walking through the small village of Polzeath, it’s not hard to see why.
Polzeath’s main draw is a fantastic beach which is also one of the UK’s best surfing destinations – there’s no shortage of surf schools and shops to take your pick from. Beach lovers head to New Polzeath, to the right of the bay, for a more relaxed swim.
Polzeath may be small, but there are plenty of places to eat and shops to explore. At Surf Side, pretty much on the beach, make sure to try The Famous Lobster Roll or Mackerel Scone.
With panoramic views of Polzeath Beach and Pentire Point, The Waterfront Bar and Grill’s terrace (pictured above) is the best places to enjoy a lazy lunch with a chilled glass of wine or dinner while the sun sets. On Sundays they do a traditional roast dinner (roast beef, Yorkshires and roasties of course). They are open all year round and have a variety of events and specials to keep you coming back.
Galleon Beach Café is known for its outdoor pizza oven. You’ll also find fish and chips and ice creams a plenty in the village centre.
The Tube Station is Polzeath’s community charity which serves home-made food at it’s café. But best of all you don’t have to eat or drink anything at all – its lounge space is there for everyone to use and enjoy.
Whitewater Gallery is well worth a visit, with beautiful ceramics, paintings, jewellery and photographs all on display to buy. Fusion is more fashion-focussed but you’ll find some great gift ideas too.
The village of Trebetherick and Daymer Bay are around the next corner, another fantastic beach which normally has calmer waves, ideal for swimmers and wind surfers.
Take a pilgrimage to see Sir John Betjeman who is buried in St Enodoc Church, close to twelfth hole of the St Enodoc Golf Club. Or simply just sit on the beach and watch the day go by.
Polzeath is a 20 minute car journey from Watergate Bay and self catering accommodation from Beach Retreats.