Quieter beaches, warmer seas and golden evenings: why late-season camping on the north coast is worth it.
Many people think of camping in Cornwall as a summer holiday, but some of our favourite weeks at Lower Pennycrocker Farm come in September and October. The school holidays are over, the lanes are quieter and the light turns golden. We stay open until 31 October, so there's plenty of time for an autumn break.
Why camp in autumn?
Fewer crowds
Beaches, car parks and harbour villages are much quieter after the summer holidays. You can often find a space in Port Isaac or Padstow without arriving at dawn.
Warmer seas
The sea around Cornwall is usually at its warmest in late summer and early autumn, because it takes months to heat up. A September swim can be more pleasant than one in June. Check which beaches still have lifeguards, as RNLI cover reduces after the main season.
Great walking weather
Cooler temperatures make the steep climbs of the coast path much more comfortable. The heather and gorse on the cliffs can still be colourful, and autumn migration brings birds along the coast. See our walks near Boscastle.
Sunsets
The sun sets earlier, so you don't have to stay up late to see it. Our sunsets and stargazing guide lists the best spots.
Dark skies
Longer nights mean more time for stargazing from the field.
What to expect from the weather
Autumn weather in Cornwall varies. You may get calm, sunny days, or Atlantic weather fronts with wind and rain. Be prepared:
- Pack a warmer sleeping bag and an insulated mat.
- Bring a good waterproof and spare dry clothes.
- Guy your tent out properly and use strong pegs.
- An awning gives you dry space, and awnings are free here.
- Keep an eye on the forecast and check for storm warnings.
Our tips for camping in wind and rain go into more detail.
Autumn things to do near Boscastle
- Walk the Valency valley as the leaves change colour.
- Watch the Atlantic swells crash at Crackington Haven or Boscastle harbour mouth, from a safe distance.
- Visit Tintagel Castle with fewer visitors.
- Take a quiet day trip to Padstow or Port Isaac.
- Seek out cosy pub lunches. See places to eat.
- Enjoy indoor attractions on wet days. See rainy-day ideas.
October half term
Our season ends on 31 October, so half-term families can still enjoy a last camping trip of the year. Book early, as it's popular.
A note on daylight
By late October it gets dark in the early evening, especially after the clocks go back. Plan walks to finish in good time and pack head torches. Reception is open 9am–7pm.
For reference, our 2026 prices per night are: adults £10, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Awnings and showers are free, parking is beside your pitch and groups are limited to 8 people. We are open from 1 April to 31 October and reception is open 9am–7pm. See pitches & prices for the details.
Lower Pennycrocker Farm Camping and Caravan Site is a family-run farm campsite at St Juliot, Boscastle, Cornwall PL35 0BY. It has been in our family for more than 80 years, and Colin and Karyn look after the site and its guests. We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans on open grass fields with wide views of the Cornish countryside and coast.
There's no clubhouse, pool or evening entertainment. Instead you get space, quiet, free hot showers, parking beside your pitch and easy access to some of the best scenery in Cornwall. Boscastle is about two miles away, Tintagel about seven, and the South West Coast Path about half a mile. Crackington Haven, Bude, Port Isaac and Padstow all make easy day trips.
Our guests rate us 4.9 out of 5 on Tripadvisor (64 reviews, as of October 2026), and many come back year after year. If you have questions before booking, call 07967 605392 (reception 9am–7pm) or email colin.heard@yahoo.com. For more local ideas, browse our guides hub, the Camping guides blog and our Tips.
September in more detail
Our guide to Cornwall in September covers the warm sea, quieter beaches and the best things to do early in the autumn.
FAQs
Are you open in October?
Yes, we're open until 31 October.
Is the sea warm in September?
It's usually among the warmest times of year for sea temperatures in Cornwall.
Is autumn camping cold?
Nights can be chilly, so bring warm sleeping bags and layers.
