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Rock, Cornwall

In Brief

Name: ROCK
Classification: Fishing village
Twinned with: No-one
Population: 1,172 in 2020
Notable resident: Gordon Ramsey owns a massive mansion in Rock which boasts spectacular views. It was built from scratch after a house from the 1920s was demolished on the site
Films shot in town: Sand dune and beach scenes from 1976’s “The Eagle Has Landed”, starring Michael Caine, were shot in Rock
Interesting factoid: The name Rock actually comes from an old quarry in the village, which is now a car park. Many moons ago, rocks from this quarry were used as ballasts by ships that had unloaded their cargo across the river. The name stuck
Another interesting factoid: There is a 15th century baptistry in the village that was built over a well where children used to be taken to be cured of whooping cough

FOR THOSE ABOUT TO GO TO ROCK (CORNWALL), WE SALUTE YOU!

Don’t think of Rock, Cornwall as being like an actual rock. It’s much softer than that as there is plenty of sand all around, thanks to its gorgeous beach that stretches around to Daymer Bay when the tide is low. Don’t think of this tranquil coastal fishing village that sits across the Camel Estuary from the famous port of Padstow as being like rock music either. It’s not particularly cool or edgy and the place is certainly heavier with cash than with noise. No, Rock’s name doesn’t really describe this place well. It’s unofficial monicker of ‘Chelsea-on-Sea’ is much better at that, due to its connections with the well-to-do residents who summer here. But it can be a great spot for families, with some insanely good restaurants around like The Dining Room, plus a waterski school and vintage cheese and wine in the shops. There’s top angling, windsurfing, rowing and sailing to be had, plus the yachts are worth checking out in the estuary. Expect the odd sighting of a millionaire and some exclusive villas in the woods. Rock up to rock and expect a charming experience with a little whiff of money in the air.