Padstow is a small harbour town on the north coast of Cornwall, set beside the Camel Estuary where the river meets the Atlantic. Its working harbour remains the centre of the town, surrounded by narrow streets, stone buildings, independent shops, cafés, and restaurants. The waterfront also provides views across the estuary toward Rock and the surrounding coast. Padstow is closely associated with Cornwall's fishing industry and has become an important base for exploring the Camel Trail, a largely traffic-free route following a former railway line between Padstow, Wadebridge, and Bodmin.

Padstow's history is closely connected to fishing, seafaring, and the harbour that continues to shape its identity. The town's name reflects its association with Saint Petroc, whose religious community helped establish Padstow as an important local centre. The harbour area still contains buildings and features connected with its maritime past, while the streets around the waterfront retain much of the character of an old Cornish settlement. Traditional fishing boats operate alongside pleasure craft, maintaining a visible connection between the town's working waterfront and its role as a coastal visitor destination.

The surrounding landscape offers a mixture of estuary, beaches, cliffs, and wooded valleys. The Camel Trail begins beside Padstow Harbour and follows the Camel Estuary inland, providing access to the countryside without relying on busy roads. Across the water, Rock is known for its sandy beach and sailing waters, while the coast north of Padstow includes beaches such as Harlyn Bay and Constantine Bay. Stepper Point, reached by coastal paths from the town, provides views over the Camel Estuary and the Atlantic. The nearby Camel Estuary is also an important habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Padstow has a strong reputation for seafood and Cornish produce, with local menus commonly featuring fish, shellfish, crab, and lobster. The harbour is also associated with traditional Cornish pasties and locally produced ice cream, while nearby farms supply restaurants and shops with meat, vegetables, and dairy products. The town became particularly well known for its association with chef Rick Stein, whose restaurants and seafood businesses helped establish Padstow as a recognised food destination. Beyond its restaurants, the harbour remains a practical place to see fishing boats land catches and observe the daily activity of a Cornish coastal community.