Work and Play
Positioned in a small valley on the more sheltered westerly side of the river Camel, Padstow became a thriving fishing port and later trading port.
In the time of Elizabeth 1st it was already a bustling little port of fishermen and boat-builders, but in the 16th and 17th centuries Padstow's growth accelerated. This was partly as a result of the 1496 bridge in Wadebridge which prevented boats from passing further up the river. In 1536 harbour construction began in earnest with the first stone pier being constructed. The growth of the mining and quarrying industry in the area established Padstow as a major port town. Copper ore was shipped to Bristol and slates exported, many from the Delabole slate quarry a few miles inland.
During the 19th century, with the pilchard industry at its height, and shipbuilding becoming a major industry, the port flourished with 6 yards producing ships at one point.
Tourism arrived in Padstow with the railway in 1899, with the ' Atlantic Express ' running a regular service between London and Padstow. Since then the town has never looked back and although the fishing industry still survives, there is little doubt that today its main industry is tourism
The harbour is filled with pleasure boats of all descriptions, and the local fishermen supply the many fish restaurants which have recently become a major feature of the town.
Work and Play
Positioned in a small valley on the more sheltered westerly side of the river Camel, Padstow became a thriving fishing port and later trading port.
In the time of Elizabeth 1st it was already a bustling little port of fishermen and boat-builders, but in the 16th and 17th centuries Padstow's growth accelerated. This was partly as a result of the 1496 bridge in Wadebridge which prevented boats from passing further up the river. In 1536 harbour construction began in earnest with the first stone pier being constructed. The growth of the mining and quarrying industry in the area established Padstow as a major port town. Copper ore was shipped to Bristol and slates exported, many from the Delabole slate quarry a few miles inland.
During the 19th century, with the pilchard industry at its height, and shipbuilding becoming a major industry, the port flourished with 6 yards producing ships at one point.
Tourism arrived in Padstow with the railway in 1899, with the ' Atlantic Express ' running a regular service between London and Padstow. Since then the town has never looked back and although the fishing industry still survives, there is little doubt that today its main industry is tourism
The harbour is filled with pleasure boats of all descriptions, and the local fishermen supply the many fish restaurants which have recently become a major feature of the town.