Shipbuilding in Padstow

Shipbuilding has been a major part of a way of life on the Camel Estuary for many centuries. 
Records show that there were 7 shipyards in Padstow in the 19^th century. 
Many types of craft were built ranging from the humble rowing boat to coastal trading ketches of 80 -90 tons. 
Sadly these yards have now disappeared beneath the car parks along the shoreline close to the harbourside and the Camel Cycle Trail, but we do have one modern yard employed in the construction of various small vessels.
 


The Lindsey Collection

Our museum houses an almost unique collection of tools used at the Lower Yard successive generations of craftsmen to name but a few, H.Cowl, S. Brabyn, and latterly W.H. (Bill) Lindsey (founder of Padstow Museum). 
As well as these tools other various artifacts associated with the building and rigging of sailing vessels are on display.
Allied to this collection we have numerous photographs showing shipbuilding in Padstow. 
There were of course other local shipyards on the estuary namely in the Wadebridge area.