Free things to do on Cornwall's north coast, from coast path walks and rock pools to waterfalls, moorland and sunsets near Boscastle.
A Cornwall holiday does not have to be expensive once you are here. Many of the best things to do on the north coast cost nothing at all, apart from parking in some places. Here are our favourite free days out near Boscastle, where Lower Pennycrocker Farm is based.
A quick note on parking: many car parks in Cornwall charge, including some run by the National Trust and the council. Members of the National Trust can usually park free in the Trust's own car parks. Check signs before you leave the car.
1. Walk the South West Coast Path
The coast path is free and about half a mile from the farm. Walk north to Pentargon waterfall or south to Boscastle and on towards Tintagel. See walks near Boscastle and the Pentargon waterfall walk.
2. Explore Boscastle harbour
Wander the harbour, watch the sea surge through the entrance and climb to the Willapark lookout. See our Boscastle harbour guide and Willapark lookout.
3. Walk the Valency valley
A wooded valley walk inland from Boscastle towards St Juliot church, with streams and shade on a hot day. See the Valency valley walk.
4. Go rock pooling
At low tide, the rock pools at Crackington Haven and other local beaches are full of life. Take a bucket, turn rocks back gently and watch the tide.
5. Spend a day on the beach
North Cornwall's beaches are free to use. Pick one to suit the tide; our best beaches in north Cornwall guide helps you choose.
6. Swim in Bude Sea Pool
Bude's tidal sea pool on Summerleaze beach is free to use and is run by a charity that relies on donations. Bude is about 15 miles from the farm; see the Bude day trip.
7. Climb a tor on Bodmin Moor
Rough Tor, about 6 miles from the farm, is open moorland with wide views. Wear boots and keep dogs on leads near livestock. See the Bodmin Moor guide.
8. Visit Rocky Valley
Near Tintagel, Rocky Valley is a short walk through a narrow gorge to the sea. See St Nectan's Glen and Rocky Valley; note that St Nectan's Glen itself charges for entry.
9. Watch the sunset and the stars
The north coast faces west, so sunsets over the sea can be spectacular. On clear nights, look up. See sunsets and stargazing in north Cornwall.
10. Look for wildlife
Watch for seabirds, choughs and seals from the cliffs. Binoculars help. See wildlife on the north Cornwall coast.
Keeping the whole trip affordable
Bring food for picnics, cook on site and choose a campsite with clear prices. Our nightly rates are £10 per adult and £5 per child aged 5 and over, with free showers. For more ideas see camping in Cornwall on a budget.
Frequently asked questions
Are beaches free in Cornwall?
Yes, beaches are free to use, though nearby car parks often charge.
Is the South West Coast Path free?
Yes, it is a free public path. Take care near cliff edges.
What free things can children do in north Cornwall?
Rock pooling, beach days, the Valency valley walk and short sections of coast path. See toddler-friendly days out.
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.
