on 03/07/2025
Cornwall, England’s southwestern jewel, is famous for its rugged coastlines, charming villages, mining heritage- and above all, its iconic Cornish pasties. What better way to explore the region than by mapping out your route via its best pasty shops?
This is more than a food tour- it's a flaky, golden-brown journey through the heart of Cornwall’s culture
What Is a Cornish Pasty, Anyway? Before we hit the road, let’s get something straight. A true Cornish pasty has a protected status (PGI), meaning it must be made in Cornwall and follow a traditional recipe: shortcrust pastry filled with beef, potato, swede, and onion, crimped along the side. But as you'll discover, local bakers have turned this humble miner’s meal into an art form with inventive fillings and secret family twists.
Kick off in the north coast fishing town of Padstow. While better known for seafood, Rick Stein’s Deli makes a surprisingly excellent pasty- hearty, peppery, and crafted with care. Make sure to check out their smoked haddock or clotted cream pasties! Grab one and stroll the harbour as seagulls eye your crust.
Established in 1905, this historic bakery knows a thing or two about pasties, priding themselves on their local ingredients. Their steak pasty is traditional and faultless, with a thick crimp and generous chunks of beef. Try to time your visit so it’s still warm from the oven, or if you can’t quite make it you can even get your pasty delivered to your doorstep!
Claiming to be the oldest Cornish pasty maker, Warrens was founded in 1860. Though now a chain, their shop in Redruth has old-school charm, and the pasties still deliver that satisfying, savoury hit. It’s also a chance to explore the area’s rich mining history.
Philps traditional pasties are baked fresh every morning using techniques and recipes passed down through the generations. They are often at the centre of “best pasty in Cornwall” debates having begun in 1958! Their Marazion branch has stunning beachside views looking out over St Michaels Mount!
A favourite among locals and pasty pilgrims alike. Ann's are slightly larger than most and known for their light pastry and deeply flavourful filling. Take one to the harbour wall and watch the waves roll in.
Nestled in the countryside near the UK’s southernmost point, this farm shop serves up legendary pasties made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s a little off the beaten path, but that’s all part of the adventure.
Another chain option but with a local bakery feel. A good pasty selection, especially if you're after a breakfast pasty or a veggie/vegan option like the spicy chickpea and spinach. Make sure to try out some of their other baked goods and home-made drinks!
Fowey is more known for its literary history and yachting crowd, but Quay Bakery adds a delicious rustic charm. Their pasties are golden, well-seasoned, and have a lovely pastry-to-filling ratio. It’s worth mentioning the owners were once pastry chefs in a 2 AA Rosette restaurant!
Polperro looks like a film set- and its pasty shop fits right in. Nestled among whitewashed cottages and winding alleys, this small bakery makes some of the best flaky-crusted pasties you’ll find. Whether you go traditional, or cheese & onion, they make a perfect lunch before a cliff walk.
A family-run shop tucked into the narrow streets of this charming fishing town. Sarah’s pasties are handmade on-site and well-loved by both locals and tourists. The breakfast pasty filled with bacon, sausage, egg, beans, mushrooms, and tomatoes is a standout if you fancy a twist on tradition. Bonus: You can eat it on the harbour wall and watch the fishing boats come in.
Temperature matters: A warm pasty is heaven. Cold is still good. Reheated in a microwave? You’re doing it wrong.
Crust etiquette: Some say you shouldn’t eat the crimped edge- it was originally used as a handle by tin miners but today it’s all fair game.
Pair it right: A strong cup of tea, a local cider, or even a Cornish ale pairs beautifully with a pasty.
Watch for gulls: They will attempt theft. They will succeed.
After seven or eight stops, you might start to question your life choices. But you’ll also understand why the Cornish pasty is such a beloved part of the region’s identity- simple, filling, and made with pride. Cornwall is a place best savoured slowly and if your map just happens to be marked with buttery fingerprints and crumbs? So much the better.
