Getting to Rock

Rock is on the eastern shore of the Camel Estuary in North Cornwall, opposite Padstow. It is a long way from most places, which is part of its charm. Here is how your guests can get here, and how to move them around on the day.

By road

Most guests will drive. From the east, the A30 crosses Bodmin Moor. Leave it for the A39 towards Wadebridge, then follow the signs for Rock and Polzeath. From the north coast, the A39 Atlantic Highway runs through Wadebridge. The final few miles are on smaller roads and lanes, and in July and August the routes into Rock, Polzeath and Padstow can be slow. Ask guests to allow extra time on a summer Saturday.

Rock and Padstow face each other across the water, but by road the trip goes round the head of the estuary through Wadebridge. That's about a half-hour drive.

The Rock to Padstow ferry

A passenger ferry crosses the estuary between Rock and Padstow throughout the day, all year round. The crossing takes only a few minutes. Things to know:

• The landing points move with the tide. At low tide the boat may leave from further along the beach.
• The last crossing is earlier in winter than in summer. Check the current timetable for your date.
• It carries foot passengers, and usually bikes and dogs, but not cars.
• In summer, a water taxi has often run later into the evening. Don't build your evening plans on it without confirming.

By train

The nearest main-line station is Bodmin Parkway, on the line between London Paddington and Penzance, roughly 35 to 40 minutes by car from Rock. Some guests may prefer Newquay, on the branch line from Par, or Plymouth for a wider choice of trains. Book taxis from the station in advance, because there are few of them waiting.

By air

Cornwall Airport Newquay is around 40 minutes from Rock by car, with flights from a number of UK airports. Exeter and Bristol airports are further away but offer more routes. Hire cars and taxis need booking ahead in summer.

By bike and on foot

The Camel Trail, a flat, traffic-free path on an old railway line, runs from Padstow along the estuary to Wadebridge and on towards Bodmin. It's a lovely way for guests to spend the day before the wedding. The South West Coast Path runs along the shore from Rock past Daymer Bay to Polzeath.

Moving guests on the day

• Put the full address and a map link on the invitation or wedding website, with the route for the last few miles.
• Arrange a minibus or coach between the ceremony, the reception and the main accommodation.
• Tell guests where to park. Parking in Rock is limited in summer.
• If guests will use the ferry, give them the last crossing time.

More on cars, coaches and parking: wedding transport.