Padstow to Rock Ferry
A charming 5-minute ferry crossing the Camel Estuary, connecting Padstow's vibrant harbour with Rock's beautiful beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Sunshine & fewer crowds
Padstow to Rock Ferry
Best Time
Sunshine & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming 5-minute ferry crossing the Camel Estuary, connecting Padstow's vibrant harbour with Rock's beautiful beaches.
"Quick, easy and fun! Good access for all, dog friendly, great views and an awesome experience."
Card Payments Only! 💳
The ferry operates on card payments only. Be sure to have your card ready for the £3 fare each way.
Check Tide Times 🌊
At low tide, the ferry lands on the sand at Rock beach. It's an adventure, but can be a bit soft!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Ferry Crossing
Camel Estuary
A quick, picturesque 5-minute journey offering stunning estuary views and a unique way to travel between Padstow and Rock.
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Padstow Harbour Charm
Padstow Harbour
Explore the charming working harbour, browse independent shops, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this popular Cornish town.
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Rock's Coastal Beauty
Rock, Cornwall
Discover the golden sands of Daymer Bay and the upscale charm of Rock, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing dip.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Logistics: Timing is Key
+1Padstow vs. Rock: Know Your Vibe
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Card Payments Only! 💳
The ferry operates on card payments only. Be sure to have your card ready for the £3 fare each way.
Check Tide Times 🌊
At low tide, the ferry lands on the sand at Rock beach. It's an adventure, but can be a bit soft!
Dog-Friendly Journey 🐶
Bring your furry friends along! The ferry is dog-friendly, making it easy to explore with your canine companion.
Park in Rock? 🤔
Some visitors recommend parking in Rock and taking the ferry to Padstow for great views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Card Payments Only! 💳
The ferry operates on card payments only. Be sure to have your card ready for the £3 fare each way.
Check Tide Times 🌊
At low tide, the ferry lands on the sand at Rock beach. It's an adventure, but can be a bit soft!
Dog-Friendly Journey 🐶
Bring your furry friends along! The ferry is dog-friendly, making it easy to explore with your canine companion.
Park in Rock? 🤔
Some visitors recommend parking in Rock and taking the ferry to Padstow for great views.
Beyond the Ferry 🚶♀️
Consider a walk along the Camel Trail or explore nearby beaches like Polzeath after your ferry trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Padstow to Rock ferry for its convenience, affordability, and scenic beauty. It's described as a quick, easy, and fun experience that enhances the visit to both towns. However, some reviews mention unfriendly staff at the Padstow Harbour Authority.
"We walked to Rock from the caravan site and decided to take the very short ferry ride over to Padstow. Reasonable cost of 3.00 each, I don't normally do boats of any kind, this was really good and is about 5 mins from one side to the other."
Leonie Sherwood
"Quick, easy and fun! Good access for all, dog friendly, great views and an awesome experience.
Staff were really friendly too 😊"
Andrew Matthewson
"Quick, convenient, and affordable
Great little ferry that gets you across in just a few minutes. Super convenient and much cheaper than driving around. Runs regularly and makes getting between Padstow and Rock really easy."
Asam Khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular and scenic way is by the Padstow to Rock ferry, a short 5-minute crossing across the Camel Estuary. You can also drive around, but it's a much longer journey.
Both Padstow and Rock have parking facilities, though they can get busy during peak season. Some visitors suggest parking in Rock and taking the ferry to Padstow.
While you can walk along the Camel Estuary, it's a significant distance. The ferry is the quickest and most direct way to travel between the two towns.
The ferry typically runs from around 8 am to 7:45 pm, but times can vary, especially with tides. It's best to check the times posted at the ferry slips.
The ferry is generally considered accessible, but at low tide, it lands on the sand at Rock beach, which might present challenges for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ferry costs £3 per adult for a single journey and £1.50 per child. Card payments are accepted.
No, return tickets are not available. You will need to purchase a single ticket for each journey.
No, the ferry operates on card payments only. Make sure you have a card with you.
No booking is required for the Padstow to Rock ferry. You can simply turn up and pay with your card.
Information on group discounts is not widely available, but the standard single fare applies per person.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Padstow offers a charming harbour, independent shops, Rick Stein's famous restaurants, and is a great base for exploring the Camel Trail and nearby beaches.
Rock is known for its beautiful beaches like Daymer Bay, upscale shops, and is a popular spot for watersports. It's also home to pubs like The Mariners.
The ferry ride is generally very calm as it crosses the sheltered Camel Estuary. It's a short and smooth journey.
Yes, the ferry is dog-friendly, allowing you to easily bring your canine companions on your travels between Padstow and Rock.
The views are fantastic, offering picturesque scenery of the Camel Estuary, the coastline, and the towns of Padstow and Rock.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific recommendations vary, many visitors enjoy pasties from local bakeries in Padstow. The one overlooking the harbour is often mentioned.
Rick Stein's establishments are a major draw in Padstow, offering renowned seafood experiences. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
The Mariners Inn in Rock is frequently recommended, especially for its seafood and location.
Yes, Padstow has several fish and chip shops, with the one overlooking the harbour being a popular choice for takeaway.
While Padstow is known for seafood, many restaurants offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to check menus or call ahead.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire ferry journey offers great photo opportunities. Capture the harbour views, the estuary's natural beauty, and the approaching towns.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for photographing Padstow's harbour and streets.
Yes, Rock offers stunning coastal shots, especially from Daymer Bay and along the waterfront. The ferry crossing itself is also very photogenic.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the Padstow Harbour Authority before flying a drone in the area.
A smartphone with good camera capabilities is sufficient for most shots. For more professional photos, a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a versatile lens would be ideal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Padstow, exploring the harbour and perhaps trying some local fish and chips is always a hit. Remember to bring cash for pasties and be prepared for card payments on the ferry. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
This is a much more economical option than driving and parking in both towns. Pack your own snacks and drinks to save on food costs, though trying a local pasty is a worthwhile splurge. 🐶 Dog Owners
Both Padstow and Rock offer beautiful coastal walks where dogs can stretch their legs. Consider exploring the Camel Trail or the beaches around Rock, keeping in mind any local dog restrictions during peak season. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Camel Estuary Ferry
+1Key considerations for this ferry trip include payment and tide times. The ferry exclusively accepts card payments, so ensure you have one ready for the £3 single fare per adult. At low tide, the ferry lands on the sandy beach at Rock, which can be a bit soft underfoot. This adds to the adventure but is worth noting if you have mobility concerns. Dogs are welcome aboard, making it a convenient option for pet owners.
Many visitors find the ferry to be a highlight of their trip, praising its convenience, affordability, and the stunning scenery it provides. It's a simple yet memorable way to appreciate the natural beauty of the Camel Estuary and the charm of both Padstow and Rock.
+1Exploring Padstow: A Foodie's Paradise
Beyond the famous chef, Padstow offers a vibrant atmosphere with independent shops and galleries to explore. Strolling around the harbour, watching the boats, and soaking in the Cornish charm are essential activities. For those looking for a quick bite, the local pasties are a must-try, with various bakeries offering their own take on this Cornish classic.
Padstow also serves as a gateway to outdoor activities. The Camel Trail, a scenic off-road cycling and walking path, starts here and winds its way along the estuary, offering beautiful views and a chance to connect with nature.
Discovering Rock: Beaches and Beyond
+1The village itself exudes an air of understated elegance, with boutique shops and charming cafes. It's a popular spot for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the coastal views, and perhaps a visit to a well-regarded pub like The Mariners. The ferry crossing provides a delightful prelude to exploring Rock's refined atmosphere.
+1Rock is also a fantastic starting point for coastal walks. The South West Coast Path is easily accessible, offering opportunities to explore the dramatic Cornish coastline. The proximity to Padstow via the ferry makes it easy to combine the vibrant energy of the harbour town with the tranquil beauty of Rock.
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