Macdonald's Farm

Macdonald’s Farm, near Padstow, is a working farm turned into a relaxed, friendly campsite with a real Cornish personality. Set on a gentle hillside, it’s surrounded by hedgerows and big skies, offering cracking views across the valley and down to the sea – you might even spot a glimmer of sunrise over the waves from your pitch. Here, you’ll find a mix of camping styles: electric and non-electric grass pitches for tents, motorhomes and caravans, or if you fancy a bit of comfort, there are stylish safari tents, cosy cabins, and even a couple of delightful B&B rooms for the less-outdoorsy. Facilities are spot-on, with smart new toilets and showers, a launderette, dog and surfboard wash, plus a proper shop and a bar where you can toast the sunset. There’s a cracking playground for the kids, games huts, and plenty of space for kicking about. The real spirit of the place comes from being an actual working farm – you can meet curious goats, clucky hens and more, and there’s a proper sense of community, whether you’re tucking into wood-fired pizza at a food pop-up or just soaking up the tranquillity.

Padstow and the north Cornwall coast are on your doorstep, so you’ll never be short of things to do. There are cracking coastal walks that put the “grand” into grand tour – the South West Coast Path snakes right past, leading to golden beaches, secret coves and clifftop lookouts. The farm’s conveniently close to beaches like Porthcothan and Trevone, perfect for surfers, bodyboarders and anyone who just fancies a lazy day on the sand. Cycling’s big here too, with quiet lanes and proper challenging off-road routes, and the Camel Trail is a breeze for families – hire a bike in Padstow and pedal along the old railway line. In the evenings, Padstow’s bustle is just a short drive away for fish suppers, buzzing pubs and a proper wander round the fishing quay. And that’s before you even think about the local foodie scene, from crab sandwiches to farm-to-table feasts, not forgetting a well-earnt cream tea after an epic ramble. Whether you’re into fishing, horse riding, or getting stuck into watersports, this stretch of coast delivers more than a few memories.