I was keen to visit Padstow. It’s reported to be a lovely seaside town with a few famous inhabitants. One being Rick Stein.

He grew up in the area and now has a huge presence in the town. There are 4 restaurants, a cafe , fish & chippery, cooking school and several accommodation places.

I wondered if he was subject to criticism by locals. Apparently not. I think they appreciate that he attracts people to the town who spend £ not just at his venues.

Travelling up from Lyme Regis we called into Plymouth. Steve has been researching his grandfather who was in the navy and was at one point in Plymouth.

It has an impressive naval heritage and some wonderful historic districts and of course award winning museums and water attractions. Drakes island sits off the coast and the old waterfront building have been restored into apartments, cafes, a museum and trips by ferry around the harbour.

Finding apartments in small towns down by the water is always a challenge but we’re getting very good. Our flat for the night is right by the harbour in a small square called Drang. The Drang apartments are great. Ours, no 1 was so good I could have stayed a week. they all have stairs but Martha the young woman in the bar next door where you collect the key whisked the bag up the stairs in a flash. I just pack an overnight bag with about 2 days clothes and essentials. Works better than taking a bag out each night.

We settled in and returned to the bar for a drink. Sitting in the afternoon sun was a great way to people watch.

The small gallery in the square Drang Gallery had a Bansksy and David Hirst

We took a passeggiata or maybe a promenade here in England around the small harbour soaking up the sights and sounds. Lots of ice cream, fish & chips, seagulls, boats bobbing and people sitting in bars.

Arriving at Rick’s The Seafood restaurant isn’t so impressive. It’s opposite a car park. Though the building is very attractive.

Inside it’s a beautiful space. Art works on the walks, great lighting, a central bar which separates the large room.

They had a special’ 50 years’ menu. For £69 for 4 courses. But though it looked good it didn’t have what we felt like.

We opted for sashimi and scallops as starters. Both sensational.

I then had grilled Bass on a bed of spinach with Burre Blanc sauce Steve had a type of fish stew. S I’m beautiful. Just don’t convert £ to Aus$. It’s frightening how much it all costs.

A nightcap back at the bar next to our place has us chatting to the couple who own it and the apartments. Perfect day.