Why September is one of the best months to visit Cornwall: warm sea, fewer crowds, good walking and surfing, and camping tips near Boscastle.
Once the schools go back, Cornwall breathes out. September often brings warm days, the year's warmest sea and much quieter roads and beaches. For many regular visitors it is the best month of all for camping on the north coast.
Why September is special
- The sea is warm. After a summer of sun, the sea is usually at its warmest in late August and September.
- Fewer people. With children back at school, beaches, car parks and coast paths are much quieter, especially midweek.
- Good walking. Paths are dry and firm, and the light is softer.
- Surf. Autumn swells start to arrive, often with fewer people in the water.
Weather
Early September can feel like summer; by the end of the month evenings are cooler and darker, and the first autumn storms may arrive. Bring warmer layers and a good waterproof, and read camping in wind and rain if the forecast turns.
Things to do in September
- Swim or paddle at Widemouth Bay or Crackington Haven while the sea is warm.
- Walk from Boscastle to Tintagel; see the Boscastle to Tintagel walk.
- Visit Tintagel and Port Isaac without the summer queues.
- Watch for seals and seabirds from the cliffs; see wildlife on the north Cornwall coast.
- Head up onto Bodmin Moor on a clear day; see the Bodmin Moor guide.
Local events change each year, so check Cornwall events by month and confirm dates locally.
Who September suits
September suits walkers, couples, surfers and families with children under school age. It is also a good choice for anyone who found Cornwall too busy in August. See quiet camping in Cornwall and couples camping in Cornwall.
Camping at Lower Pennycrocker Farm in September
We are open until 31 October, so September is well within our season. Our quiet farm site is about two miles from Boscastle and half a mile from the coast path. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). For later in the season see autumn camping in Cornwall and October camping in Cornwall.
Tips for a September trip
Shorter evenings mean you will want a good lantern and a head torch. Plan the main outing of the day for the afternoon, when it is warmest, and keep mornings for walks. Midweek stays are the quietest of all, and popular places such as Tintagel are much calmer than in August.
Best beaches in September
With lifeguard cover reducing as the season ends, choose beaches carefully and check which are still patrolled. Our best beaches in north Cornwall guide helps you choose.
Getting around in September
Roads are much calmer once the summer holidays end, and parking at Boscastle, Tintagel and Port Isaac becomes far easier. It is a good month for longer day trips, such as Clovelly or Padstow, that can be slow in August.
Frequently asked questions
Is September a good time to visit Cornwall?
Yes. The sea is usually warm, the crowds have thinned and the weather can still be very pleasant.
Is Cornwall quiet in September?
Much quieter than in the school holidays, especially midweek.
Is it too cold to camp in Cornwall in September?
Not usually. Nights get cooler as the month goes on, so pack a warmer sleeping bag.
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.
