14 best things to do in Wadebridge, Cornwall

Situated on the River Camel, I think Wadebridge is a wonderfully charming town. It’s known for its beautiful countryside, traditional architecture, and vibrant community.

The local history is strong and a source of real pride for the residents here. Watersports are big around this town, with kayaking, paddleboarding and coasteering being popular things to do in Wadebridge.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the local history, enjoying some outdoor activities, or simply relaxing in a cosy pub, Wadebridge has plenty to offer.

With so much to see and do in and around the town, I love charming Wadebridge as a base for exploring Cornwall.

Here I share my pick of the best things to do in Wadebridge, based on my visits over the years.

15 things to do in Wadebridge

1. Cycle the Camel Trail

Trail information:

• Padstow to Wadebridge – 5.5 miles (8.8 kilometres)
• Wadebridge to Bodmin (Boscarne) – 5.75 miles (9.25 kilometres)
• Bodmin to Wenfordbridge – 6.25 miles (10.1 kilometres)

The Camel Trail is a beautiful route that runs along the River Camel, and exploring it is one of the best things to do in Wadebridge. 

The trail takes you through stunning countryside and picturesque villages, running from Padstow to Wenfordbridge.

Passing through some of the most beautiful countryside in Cornwall, the trail is 18 miles long and mostly traffic-free.

If you aren’t up to completing the whole trail, I’d recommend just doing the Wadebridge to Padstow stretch which is around five and a half miles.

Given that Padstow is a haven for foodies, having a bite to eat at one of the Cornish seafood restaurants in the town is great motivation for your cycle!

Read my guide to the best pubs and restaurants in Padstow or check out my pick of the top breakfast places in Padstow for some foodie inspiration.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can rent a bike and cycle the whole trail. Or I’d suggest simply taking a leisurely stroll at your own pace and enjoying the Cornish scenery.

There are several places to hire your bikes from in Wadebridge, offering various models to suit all the family – including your four-legged friends!

Some of the best Wadebridge bike hire companies include: Bridge Bike Hire, Camel Trail Cycle Hire and Bike Smart Bike Hire.

2. Wine tasting at Trevibban Mill Vineyard

Address: Trevibban Mill, Padstow PL27 7SE

Opening times:

• General – Tuesday to Thursday, 12:00 to 17:00; Friday and Saturday, 09:00 to 17:00
• Grand Walking Tour – Saturdays, 10:30 (April to end of September)
• Guided Tour – Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 15:00
• Wine Tasting – Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 to 15:30

Prices: 

• Grand Walking Tour – £65 per person
• Guided Tour – £20 per person
• Wine Tasting – £15 per person

If you’re a wine enthusiast, then a visit to Trevibban Mill Vineyard is one of the unmissable things to do in Wadebridge.

I visited here with a group of friends and we had a wonderful few hours. You can take a tour of the scenic vineyard and enjoy sampling the award-winning wine in a tasting session. 

The Grand Walking Tour at Trevibban Mill Vineyard is held on Saturday mornings by an owner or member of the family.

You’ll be expertly guided around the vineyard, orchard and lakeside, while learning about viticulture & grape growing.

You’ll discover how they make the wine and cider, followed on with a delicious lunch and a tutored tasting of their wines.

Guided tours and separate wine tastings are also available throughout the week, where you can sample five wines and ciders.

An experienced member of their team will guide you through each wine and be able to answer any questions you might have.

3. Go kayaking

Kayaking is one of my favourite things to do in Wadebridge, and the River Camel is a great place to do it.

You can either hire your own kayaks and explore at your own pace, or you can join a guided tour.

I’d recommend the latter option, as the experts know how to use the tide to make it a little easier. We booked with Cornish Kayaking and I’d definitely recommend them. 

Whether you’re a kayaking pro or complete novice, getting active while immersed in nature is a great way to spend your time in Wadebridge.

And you may even be lucky enough to spot some wildlife along the way. 

4. Enjoy a coasteering adventure

Coasteering is an adrenaline-fuelled activity that involves climbing, swimming, and jumping off cliffs.

It’ll take some nerve, but you’ll see the Cornish coastline from a whole new perspective and gain a greater appreciation for the dramatic shoreline.

You can book a coasteering adventure in Wadebridge with several different companies to explore the rugged coastline.

Good to know: The company we used for kayaking – Cornish Kayaking – also offers coasteering for a unique Wadebridge adventure, so I’d recommend booking with them.

5. Walk to The Rumps

Address: The Rumps, Wadebridge PL27 6QY

Travel times: 

• Walking: 3 hours 15 minutes
• By car: 20 minutes

The Rumps is a stunning twin-headland on Pentire head with panoramic views of the Cornish coast.

Not only is it famed for its incredible vistas, The Rumps is the site of an Iron Age promontory fort, first recorded in 1584. 

Immerse yourself in the defensive and trade history of the place as you embrace the sea air.

If you don’t mind a longer walk, I’d recommend heading off from Wadebridge to The Rumps and enjoying the scenery along the way.

Good to know: The entire Pentire headland including The Rumps is conserved under the National Trust. 

6. Take to the water with paddleboarding

There’s no shortage of water sports activities in Wadebridge – as well as kayaking and coasteering, don’t forget about paddleboarding in Cornwall!

I love a spot of paddleboarding, especially as this fun activity is easy to learn and beginner-friendly – plus, if you fall in, it adds to the adventure!

You can hire paddleboards in Wadebridge and explore along the River Camel. I think it’s a wonderful way to take in the scenery from the water.

7. Head to the beach

Wadebridge is close to some beautiful Cornish beaches so if you fancy a relaxing day rather than adventure-driven activities, head to the shore. 

Polzeath Beach – A great family beach with seasonal lifeguard cover, Polzeath Beach is one of my personal favourites. Fancy learning to surf? This beach has the ideal conditions to start practising. 

Daymer Bay – Slightly more secluded than other beaches in the area, Daymer Bay is a good choice for those hoping for a relaxed visit. The beach is surrounded by dunes and sandhills to explore. 

Rock Beach – A popular holiday destination, the well-heeled village of Rock draws visitors from near and far. Rock Beach is the ideal location for anyone looking to take in the local beauty, and also for bird watchers. 

Good to know: While the beaches may have their own designated car parks, they can often be expensive and busy. I’d recommend walking or cycling to the beach if you can. 

8. Try go-karting at St Eval Kart Circuit

Address: St Eval, Wadebridge PL27 7UN

Opening times: 

• During local school holidays, they are open Monday to Saturday.
• Outside of school holidays, they are generally open five days per week.
• Reduced hours in winter.
• Find out the specific opening times on their website.

Prices:

• Ages seven to 15 – £12.50 per person
• Ages 16 and over – £17 per person
• Adult Grand Prix – £55 per person

If you’re looking for some high-speed fun, head to St Eval Kart Circuit, Cornwall’s largest karting circuit.

I love a spot of go-karting, and both children and adults alike can test their skills on the track and get that hit of adrenaline. 

Race around the track in a karting session or compete against your friends and family in your very own Grand Prix.

Practice, qualifying and the main race – now’s the time to live out your F1 dreams!

9. Go surfing at Polzeath Beach

Address: PL22 6TB

A blue flag awarded beach, Polzeath Beach is a hotspot for both locals and tourists.

With seasonal RNLI lifeguard cover, this beach is a perfect spot for surfing – whether you’re a pro or a beginner.

You can take a surfing lesson to build your confidence and hire a board to enjoy the waves. In my opinion, this is an unmissable activity when in Cornwall!

10. Wadebridge and District Museum

Address: Trebur House, Chapel Ln, Wadebridge PL27 7NJ

Opening times: 

• Monday to Friday: 11:00 to 15:00
• Saturday: 11:00 to 13:00

If you’re a history buff, I’d recommend taking the chance to clue up on some local history at the Wadebridge and District Museum.

This is also an excellent activity in Cornwall for when it rains, as you wait for the weather to brighten up. 

Discover prehistoric Wadebridge through to the modern day, including the barge trade, the River Camel and even about the humble pasty.

The museum has a range of interesting exhibits which showcase the history of the town and the surrounding area. 

11. Visit nearby Padstow

Travel times: 

• Walking: 2 hours
• By car: 20 minutes
• By bus: 22 minutes

Best things to do in Padstow:

• Visit the National Lobster Hatchery
• Take a ferry trip to Rock
• See Prideaux Place

On the west bank of the River Camel, Padstow is a charming fishing village and a haven for foodies. It’s why Padstow is one of my all-time favourite Cornish towns.

You can explore the pretty harbour, visit the independent shops and galleries, and enjoy some delicious seafood.

There’s no shortage of places to grab a bite to eat in Padstow, with seafood restaurants serving up freshly prepared dishes and family-owned cafés for quick bites.

Undoubtedly one of the best towns to visit in Cornwall, Padstow’s quaint charm shines through in its boutique shops and eateries. 

Discover more of the best things to do in Padstow in my guide.

12. Explore Pencarrow House & Garden

Address: Washaway, Bodmin PL30 3AG

Opening times: Sunday to Friday, 10:00 – 17:00

Prices: 

• Adults: House and gardens, £14.75; gardens only, £8
• Children aged five to 16: House and gardens, £5; gardens only, free
• Children under five: House and gardens, free
• Registered disabled: House and gardens, £12.75; gardens only, £6.75

A Grade II* listed building, Pencarrow House & Garden is a beautiful stately home with stunning gardens.

Discover the almost 500 year old secrets of the Molesworth-St Aubyn family with guided tours of the country house. 

A dog friendly day out in Wadebridge, Pencarrow Garden is the perfect place for your furry friend to run off some steam. 

Good to know: Dogs are not allowed inside the building (except assistance dogs). They should be kept on leads around the outside of the home and café due to free range chickens and peacocks roaming. 

13. Attend the Royal Cornwall Show in June

The Royal Cornwall Show is a popular event that takes place in June. If you’re visiting at that time, I’d really recommend attending the show as it’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Cornwall.

Showcasing the very best of Cornish agriculture, it’s a great opportunity to see some of the best livestock and flower shows in the country.

With classic Cornish catering, hundreds of trade stalls and the traditional steam fair, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

14. Play golf at St Enodoc Golf Club

Address: Rock, Wadebridge PL27 6LD

Prices: Dependent on course and season. See their website for full pricing information. 

Keen golfers, this one’s for you! St Enodoc Golf Club is a beautiful course with gorgeous views of the Cornish coast.

With two courses – the demanding Church Course and the testing Holywell Course – you’ll find yourself a challenge here.

Where to stay in Wadebridge

If you’re choosing to stay in Wadebridge as your base then I’d highly recommend staying at Hillcote.

It’s a luxury holiday home managed by Aspects Holidays with four bedrooms, two reception rooms and a gorgeous garden.

Just perfect if you’re travelling with friends or family. The interiors are immaculate and every detail has been thought of.

Read more in my review of Hillcote or discover the best hotels in Padstow.

Best pubs & restaurants in Wadebridge

1. Stepping Stone

Address: Polmorla Rd, Wadebridge PL27 7ND

Best for: Relaxed environment

If you are looking for a cosy pub with a great atmosphere, look no further than the Stepping Stone. This pub offers a wide range of delicious drinks to sip on, from local ales to cocktails. 

The food menu is also impressive, with a variety of seasonal dishes using locally-sourced ingredients to suit all tastes.

The restaurant proudly offers a variety of meat, fish and vegetarian options.

2. Warne’s Bar & Restaurant

Address: 1-3 Polmorla Rd, Wadebridge PL27 7LZ

Best for: Locally-sourced ingredients

Warne’s Bar & Restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and tourists thanks to its wonderful food and ambiance.

This establishment offers a relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff and a great selection of drinks to choose from. 

The food menu is definitely worth exploring, with a range of delectable dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy some scrumptious seafood or a Cornish fillet steak coupled with a smooth wine.

3. The Tiny Thai

Address: 1a Molesworth St, Wadebridge PL27 7DA

Best for: Authentic Thai food

If you are in the mood for some delicious Thai food, I’d recommend The Tiny Thai. This restaurant offers a range of authentic Thai dishes, from spicy curries to fragrant stir-fries. 

The Tiny Thai prides itself on providing mouth-watering dishes cooked in the same way that duo Bpuu and Paul would at home.

Full of flavour, this restaurant is a must-visit restaurant in Wadebridge.

4. The Maltsters Arms

Address: Chapel Amble, Wadebridge PL27 6EU

Best for: Traditional pub

The Maltsters Arms is a traditional pub with a modern twist. This establishment offers a wide range of drinks to enjoy, from local ales to craft beers.

The food menu at this pub is also impressive, with a range of tasty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. 

5. The Swan Hotel

Address: 9 Molesworth St, Wadebridge PL27 7DD

Best for: Sharing platters

The Swan Hotel is a boutique hotel that offers a range of dining options from grazing options and sharing platters to main dishes.

You can enjoy your meal in the cosy dining room while sipping on local ales, delicious wines and fruity cocktails. 

Wadebridge parking

When visiting Wadebridge, finding a parking spot can sometimes be a challenge, especially during peak tourist season. However, I’ve got several options for you.

Pay and display car parks

Wadebridge has several pay and display car parks, which are a convenient option if you plan to stay in the town centre for an extended period. 

• Jubilee Road car park: Jubilee Road, Wadebridge PL27 7AE – 35 spaces
• Commissioners Quay car park: 1 Commissioners Rd, Wadebridge PL27 7AU – 25 spaces
• Goldsworthy Way car park: Goldsworthy Way, Wadebridge PL27 7DS – 59 spaces
• Cattle Market car park: Polmorla Road, Wadebridge PL27 7NR – 105 spaces

The charges for the pay and display car parks vary depending on the location and time of day. Make sure to check the signs for the latest information.

On-street parking

On-street parking is available in some areas of Wadebridge, but it can be limited. Make sure to check the signs for any restrictions before parking.

Remember to park considerately, as narrow streets can make it difficult for other drivers to pass.

Free parking

If you don’t mind a short walk, there are a few free parking options available in Wadebridge. However, these car parks can fill up quickly during peak tourist season, so make sure to arrive early.

Free parking in Wadebridge includes:

• Trevanson car park: Piggy Lane, Trevanson Street, Wadebridge PL27 7AP – 197 spaces
• Jubilee Road car park: Jubilee Road, Wadebridge PL27 7AE – 204 spaces

If you’ve got any recommendations for Wadebridge and the surrounding area then do let me know in the comments!

Planning a trip to Cornwall? Discover the best spa breaks in Cornwall for a relaxing break or read my guide to the top afternoon teas in Cornwall for a touch of indulgence.

For those who love the outdoors, seek out the best waterfalls in Cornwall or the best paddleboarding spots.