The Camel Estuary is unusual in that due to its sandy shore it is just as beautiful at low tide as it is when the plug is in! The surfing mecca of Polzeath sits inside the mouth of the estuary on the eastern bank. The Greenaway separates Polzeath from the quieter Daymer Bay. Sir John Betjeman’s resting place, St Enedoc Church sits behind the sand dunes, sheltered by Brea Hill and the Links golf course.

The exclusive resort of Rock with its sailing club and water-ski school looks across at the well known fishing harbour town of Padstow. Thanks to Rick Stein, Padstow can probably claim to have kick-started Cornwall’s culinary following. Further up this sandy estuary, the smart, former market town of Wadebridge has one of the best independent highs streets in the county.