Located directly across the Camel Estuary from Padstow, the village of Rock is a not-so-well-kept secret spot along the Cornish coast.

An undeniably beautiful part of Cornwall, Rock has attracted an affluent crowd to its stunning sandy beach and sheltered waters for several years now. It’s 1,000+ population is believed to count Gordon Ramsay among its number, and its sand dunes and beach were used as filming locations for the 1976 film The Eagle has Landed.

Sometimes nicknamed Britain’s St-Tropez, Chelsea-on-Sea or the Kensington of Cornwall, Rock is a popular spot for swimming, sailing and a multitude of other watersports. There’s no question that the village is well worth a visit, and you might even catch sight of a familiar face or two as you wander through the pretty streets and independent boutique shops.

The history of Rock

Despite what the name may suggest, Rock is actually home to a very beautiful sandy beach.

The name Rock in fact comes from the nearby quarry, where stone was taken to be used for ballast – added weight to maintain stability – by ships that had unloaded their cargo in Padstow.

The quarry has remained responsible for the village’s identity throughout the centuries: the first recorded name, from 1303, was the Cornish word Penmayn, which means the head of stones. During the 14th century, the name had morphed to become Blaketorre, or Black Tor. Fast forward to the 18th century and the name had again changed to Black Rock, before finally being shortened to Rock, as we know it today.

Rock Beach in Cornwall

Things to see and do in Rock

It may be a small place, but Rock is certainly not short of ways to keep you entertained.

Watersports are one of the main reasons that people return to Rock year after year. The sheltered waters are a hub for sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, rowing and canoeing. Why not pay a visit to Camel Ski School, the largest waterski centre in the UK, and try your hand at one of the aquatic activities they have on offer?

If you’d rather stay on dry land, a trip to the shop and tasting room at Sharp’s Brewery could be the order of the day. You could take a trip to one of the local art galleries before heading to the home of Doom Bar ale for a tasting experience.

For the outdoor enthusiasts, the Rock to Polzeath circular walk – part of the Cornwall coast path – is a 5.8 mile track which takes in St Enodoc Church, Daymer Bay and the purple and green striped rocks at Trebetherick Point. Or if you prefer to spend your spare time on two wheels, the Camel Trail is an 18 mile cycle route that follows an old railway line through the Cornish countryside.

History buffs can take a water taxi over the Camel Estuary to Padstow and pay a visit to Prideaux Place, one of the West Country’s oldest habitable houses.

Rock beach

Rock is home to a beautiful mile long sandy beach, surrounded by dunes on one side and calm, clear seas on the other.

The beach reaches all the way to Daymer Bay, and the dunes are a Site of Special Scientific Interest thanks to their specific flora and geology.

Dog owners will be pleased to learn that Rock beach is dog-friendly year-round, and the calm seas draw a mass of swimmers and watersports enthusiasts each summer.

Shopping in Rock

The Beach House is a must-visit for any Rock visitors with even a vague interest in shopping. This independent boutique has been established for 25 years and sells a range of beautiful clothing, homewares and gifts. Don’t forget to pay a visit to their sister store, Mooch Homewares, while you’re there.

If you’ve decided to try your hand at sailing, one of the many reasons so many are drawn to Rock each year, then don’t miss a trip to Quba & Co to stock up on all the apparel you need for your new hobby.

Drone shot of Rock, Cornwall

Eating and drinking in Rock

Like all good seaside villages, Rock offers a fish & chip shop, as well as bakery, butcher and of course a fishmonger.

Whether you’re looking for cafes or restaurants, foodie fans will not be short of choices in Rock. Fee’s Food is a local deli and cafe where you’ll find delectable Cornish produce, including fresh pies, quiches, sourdough and pastries – and they even deliver to nearby holiday cottages.

If you’re in the mood for something special, head to The Mariners by the slipway. Owned by celebrity chef Paul Ainsworth, it’s fine dining to a tee, making it the perfect spot to treat yourself during your getaway.

After dinner (or even before!), St Enodoc Hotel is the place to go for cocktails or local wine, gin and draught beer, enjoyed whilst overlooking the stunning waterfront.

If you prefer a more traditional pub setting, the Pity Me Inn is a mile outside Rock and has been a beloved, dog-friendly, village pub for over 50 years. Enjoy long summer evenings in the beer garden, or cosy up next to the woodburner during the colder months.

Getting there and getting around

The easiest way to get to Rock is to drive. The village is 30 minutes away from the A30, which is the main road through Cornwall.

You can find some roadside parking in the village, around a half-mile walk to the beach. There is also paid parking at Rock Quarry car park, although this can get busy during the summer.

The closest town is Padstow, which is just 1.5 miles away across the River Camel. You can reach Rock via a ferry, or take a 25-minute bus journey to stay on dry land.

The closest train station to Rock is Bodmin Parkway, which is around a 40-minute drive from the village.

Newquay Airport is around 35 minutes’ drive away, with flights from other UK airports running throughout the summer.

How far is Rock from…?

Padstow: 1.5 miles by ferry or 15 miles by road

Newquay: 23 miles by road

Falmouth: 42 miles by road

St Ives: 52 miles by road

Penzance: 53 miles by road

Tintagel: 15 miles by road

Perranporth: 30 miles by road

Truro: 31 miles by road

Tourist information in Rock

The closest Tourist Information Centre is in Padstow, but you can find local information scattered around the village.

At the CRW Holidays office in Rock, we’re always happy to chat to visitors, make recommendations or point you in the right direction. Why not drop in and say hello?

Upalong Sea view self catering house in Rock Cornwall

Where to stay in Rock

You won’t be short of choices of accommodation for your stay in Rock. Choose from hotels, bed and breakfasts and self-catering holiday homes to make sure your stay in Cornwall’s north coast is perfect for your needs.

Just outside Rock, you’ll also find plenty of hotels and holiday cottages in nearby Padstow, Polzeath and Daymer Bay.

At CRW Holidays, we have a wide variety of self-catering holiday homes to make your stay in Rock special.

For family gatherings or a large group of friends, Upalong is the perfect choice. This pet-friendly spot has plenty of parking, a South facing garden and can sleep up to 8 people. The semi-detached home backs onto the St Enodoc golf course and is just a few minutes away from the beach, shops and sailing club.

Any couple’s retreat hosted at 9 Slipway will never fail to feel special. Sleeping up to 8 people and with 3 bathrooms, there’s space for everyone to feel comfortable. The outside deck area and stunning sea views are a highlight of this beautiful airy space.

CRW Holidays have a range of holiday properties in Rock to choose from. Take a look and find the perfect holiday home for you today.