A guide to Rock
Whilst Rock may famously attract a well-heeled crowd, it still offers Cornish charm and natural beauty by the bucketload.
Located on the county’s rugged north coast, this small but perfectly formed village sits in a picturesque position on the banks of the Camel Estuary, almost directly opposite Padstow. With its sandy beaches, glorious walks, sparkling sea views, delicious food and more, this quaint seaside gem has all the ingredients for a perfect Cornish getaway.
Beautiful Walks
Grab your boots and explore Rock on foot. A walk down to pretty Porthilly Cove is a must; at low tide Porthilly joins up with the golden sands of Rock Beach – one Cornwall’s best loved beaches – so you can walk between the two.
Follow the white stone markers across the golf course and stunning sand dues to the historic St Enodoc Church – a peaceful and picturesque place once buried in sand, and the final resting place of English poet, Sir John Betjeman. From here, you can continue on to the famous sandy beaches of Daymer Bay and Polzeath, and the sleepy village of St Minver.
Local walks
View from Latitude 50 property ‘Slipway’
Where to eat in Rock
Conveniently, Rock offers all the foodie essentials, and more. There’s a family butcher, a fishmonger, a popular bakery and a good fish and chip shop too.
If you’re planning a picnic, then head to Fee’s Food. This well-designed deli of dreams is filled with delicious homemade treats alongside a variety of artisan brands and carefully sourced wines. Each day there’s a wide choice of fresh pastries, cakes, local cheese, and homemade lunches, from salads and sandwiches to quiches and more, as well as a freezer full of homemade meals, all beautifully branded and packaged.
If you’re after something more substantial, then head to The Mariners; the latest addition to Paul Ainsworth’s ever-expanding portfolio of top-notch restaurants in the county. This stylish, two storey pub overlooks the water and the patchwork of green fields beyond. Bag a table upstairs on the terrace and enjoy good cocktails, delicious, creative dishes, and a touch of fun food theatre too. Don’t miss the legendary fish and chops, and the indulgent seafood cocktail, which comes cradled by a large silver octopus…
Fee’s Food, Rock
BBQ at St Enodoc Hotel
Guide continues on the Maverick Guide website here. Written for the Maverick Guide to Cornwall vol.3 (print edition 2023) and for the Maverick Guide online, published January 2023.
