Where to have a pint or a pub supper in Boscastle, and how to plan an evening in the village from the campsite.
After a day on the coast path, there is nothing better than a pint in an old Cornish pub. Boscastle has some characterful inns, each with its own feel, and they are a big part of what makes an evening in the village special. Lower Pennycrocker Farm has no bar on site, so many of our guests head into Boscastle, about two miles away, for a meal or a drink. This guide introduces the village pubs and shares a few practical tips.
Opening hours, menus and dog policies change from season to season, so always check with the pub directly, especially if you want to eat. Booking a table in the summer holidays is wise.
The Cobweb Inn
Down near the harbour end of the village, the Cobweb Inn is one of Boscastle's best-known pubs. It is an old building with low beams, and it takes its name from the cobwebs that were once left to gather in the days when it was used as a store, according to local tradition. It is a relaxed, traditional pub and is popular with walkers and families. It is also home to the Cobweb's music events, including a shanty festival in some years.
Because it sits close to the river, it was affected by the 2004 flood. You can read more about that day in our post on the Boscastle flood of 2004.
The Napoleon Inn
Up the hill in the older, upper part of the village is the Napoleon Inn, often called "the Nap" by locals. It is a traditional pub with a village atmosphere, low ceilings and a few separate rooms. The name is said to come from the days when it was used as a recruiting place for men to fight Napoleon. Getting there means a steep walk up from the harbour, but it is well worth it, and it makes a natural stop on a circuit of the upper village.
The Wellington Hotel
The Wellington Hotel stands near the bridge in the lower village, with a distinctive castellated tower. It is an old coaching inn, and its bar welcomes non-residents. It is handy for the main car park and the harbour.
Other places to eat and drink
As well as the pubs, Boscastle has cafés, tea rooms and places to pick up food. Our places to eat in Boscastle page lists more options for breakfast, lunch and cream teas.
Tips for a pub evening from the campsite
Getting there and back
- Drive and designate a driver: it is a short drive into the village, and the main car park is close to the lower village pubs.
- Taxi: book ahead, especially in summer and for late returns. Local taxi numbers are worth saving before you arrive.
- Walk: confident walkers can use lanes and footpaths, but the lanes have no pavements or street lights. We don't recommend walking back in the dark.
Please be considerate when you return to the campsite late; other guests may be sleeping. Our quiet fields are one of the things people love about us.
Booking a table
In July and August and on bank holidays, the pubs can be very busy at mealtimes. Book ahead or eat early. In spring and autumn it is usually easier to walk in, but evening opening may be shorter.
Pubs with dogs
Many Cornish pubs welcome well-behaved dogs in the bar, but rules differ between rooms and between pubs. Ask before you go in. Our guide to Boscastle with dogs has more dog-friendly ideas.
Children
Most pubs welcome families for food, especially earlier in the evening. See Boscastle with kids for more family ideas.
Pub walks from Boscastle
Plenty of walks end, or start, at a pub:
- Harbour and Willapark loop: climb the Willapark headland, return via Forrabury church and finish with a drink in the lower village.
- Valency valley: walk up the river to St Juliot and back, then reward yourself in the village. See the Valency Valley walk.
- The Napoleon circuit: wander up through the upper village to the Nap, then back down to the harbour.
Further afield
If you fancy a change, other pubs within a short drive include those at Crackington Haven to the north and at Tintagel and Port Isaac to the south. They are great for a lunch stop on a day out. Just plan a designated driver, as the lanes are narrow and winding.
Local drinks to try
Cornwall has a strong brewing and cider scene. Look out for Cornish ales and ciders on the bar. Many pubs also stock local soft drinks and spirits. Ask the bar staff what is local; they will usually be glad to tell you.
Respecting the village
Boscastle is a small community as well as a visitor destination. Keep noise down in the streets late at night, park only in the car parks and take litter home. It helps keep the village a welcoming place for everyone.
Frequently asked questions
How many pubs are there in Boscastle?
The best known are the Cobweb Inn, the Napoleon Inn and the bar at the Wellington Hotel. Check opening times directly as they vary by season.
Are Boscastle pubs dog friendly?
Many welcome dogs in at least part of the pub, but policies vary. Ask before you go in.
Can I walk to the pubs from Lower Pennycrocker Farm?
It is about two miles, mostly along lanes without pavements or lights. Walking there in daylight is possible with a map, but we suggest a taxi or a designated driver for the return.
Is there a bar at the campsite?
No. We are a quiet farm campsite with no bar or shop, so the village pubs are the place to go.
For more places to eat a short drive away, see pubs and food beyond Boscastle.
Stay near Boscastle
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle (PL35 0BY). We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans from 1 April to 31 October. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Showers are free and you park beside your pitch. Check availability and book direct, or see pitches and prices.
Planning a trip for two? Our page on camping for couples in Cornwall explains why our quiet farm near Boscastle suits a slower break.
