What to expect in Cornwall in May: weather, wildflowers, bank holidays and half term, events and tips for a camping trip near Boscastle.
May is one of the loveliest months in Cornwall. The cliffs are bright with wildflowers, the days are long and, outside the bank holidays, beaches and car parks are still quiet. For campers it is a sweet spot: warm enough by day, with fewer people than summer.
What the weather is like
May on the north coast is often bright and fresh, with mild days and cool nights. The Atlantic keeps temperatures moderate, and showers can still pass through. The sea is cold, so a wetsuit helps if you plan to surf or swim. Pack a warm sleeping bag and layers; our guide to what to pack by season has a spring list.
Wildflowers and wildlife
The coast path is at its most colourful in late spring, with thrift, bluebells in the valleys and gorse on the cliffs. Seabirds are nesting, and you may spot choughs on the cliffs. See wildlife on the north Cornwall coast and walks near Boscastle.
Bank holidays and half term
May has two bank holiday weekends in England: the early May bank holiday at the start of the month and the spring bank holiday at the end, which usually lines up with the school half term. Those weekends are much busier, so book early. See bank holiday camping in Cornwall and Cornwall school holidays for dates and tips.
Events in May
Padstow's May Day celebrations, with the 'Obby 'Oss, are one of Cornwall's best-known traditions, held on 1 May. Padstow is about 45 minutes' drive from the farm and extremely busy that day, so plan travel and parking carefully. Other events change from year to year; see Cornwall events by month and north Cornwall shows and events, and check dates locally.
Ideas for a May camping trip
- Walk from Boscastle to Tintagel on the coast path; see the Boscastle to Tintagel walk.
- Visit Tintagel before the summer crowds arrive.
- Explore Bodmin Moor on a clear day.
- Rock pool at Crackington Haven at low tide.
Camping at Lower Pennycrocker Farm in May
We are open from 1 April to 31 October. In May you will find a quiet farm site about two miles from Boscastle, with free showers and parking beside your pitch. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). See spring camping in Cornwall for more on staying with us early in the season.
Tips for a May trip
Book bank holiday weekends early, but consider midweek stays for the calmest beaches. Mornings can be dewy, so pitch on the flattest, driest ground you can find and bring wellies. Evening light is lovely by late May, so plan a sunset walk on the cliffs.
Frequently asked questions
Is May a good time to visit Cornwall?
Yes. It is often bright, with wildflowers and quieter beaches outside the bank holiday weekends.
Is it warm enough to camp in Cornwall in May?
Days are usually mild, but nights can be cool. Bring a warm sleeping bag and layers.
Is May half term busy in Cornwall?
Yes. The spring bank holiday and half term week are among the busier times of the year.
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.
