A visit to Rest A While Tea Garden

What a view! The entrance to the Rest A While Tea Garden.

On the rugged coastline, just outside Padstow, sits Rest A While Tea Garden, a hidden gem at Hawker’s Cove a quiet inlet overlooking the mouth of the Camel Estuary. Found along South West Coast Path its setting feels delightfully secluded, and yet it’s just a short walk from the bustle of Padstow Harbour. Positioned between Hawker’s Cove beach and the dramatic Stepper Point (closer to the former) the tea garden is a peaceful stopping point for walkers and beach visitors alike on this scenic stretch of coast. Most will arrive from Hawkers Cove itself, having exited the coastal path onto the beach at Harbour Cove which precedes it. There’s easy access from Hawker’s Cove itself, up a small cliff near to a sign to the tea garden (which is visible from below). Alternatively, when the tide is out, you can also reach it via a slipway behind The Old Lifeboat Station. (See pictures on slideshow below).

Rest A While Tea Garden is situated at the back of the ‘Coastguard Cottages’. It’s right behind highest of this row of white-painted residences, and you are welcomed quite literally onto the garden decking of one of these homes. As such, its opening is weather dependent, but on a fine day the views are hard to beat! From this spot you can gaze across the Doom Bar to Polzeath and Daymer Bay. The tea garden is open from Easter to October (from 11am to 3pm every day) and it’s a perfect pitstop on the route of a favourite walk of mine, which I hope to guide you through in the future. For those in search of sustenance, it may be a destination in itself.

A Merry Cherry smoothie and homemade Quiche Lorraine - a perfect lunch!

So, during a day at the beach or a lovely walk what are some of the best treats to have as you look out at this breath-taking vista? Well, if you’re a traditionalist, a cream tea is always a good choice. Remember it’s jam first, you are in Cornwall after all. Perhaps you’re in the mood for something savoury, on my most recent visit I sampled their homemade Quiche Lorraine which was delicious. Of course there’s ice cream too, for those warm summer days which happily aren’t too far away now. Their coffee is also excellent, as are their smoothies, so plenty of options to quench your thirst during a day at the beach or to get your caffeine fix before heading further along the coastal path. They also cater to a variety of dietary requirements (with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options available). Well-behaved dogs are welcomed with a fresh bowl of water and biscuits, so it’s a great place for all the family.

Just a small detour off the South West Coast Path for spectacular views and tasty food.

Rest A While Tea Garden’s charm makes it feel like a well-earned pause in one of Cornwall’s most beautiful corners, a great addition to the excellent cafés North Cornwall has to offer. A friendly spot that would be a great part of your day and a excellent alternative to a beach picnic lunch (with no risk of sandy sandwiches). So, whether it’s your first time visiting Padstow’s nearest beaches or you’re returning for their wild and unspoilt beauty, why not stop at this great spot to feel truly and completely refreshed.

For further information, why not check out their Facebook and Tripadvisor pages:

Facebook page - Rest A While Tea Garden

Tripadvisor - Rest A While Tea Garden

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