A guide to the National Trust land and places around Boscastle and how to enjoy them on a camping holiday nearby.
Much of what makes Boscastle so special is looked after by the National Trust. The harbour, many of the old buildings around it and large stretches of the surrounding cliffs and valley are in the Trust's care. If you are a member, or simply love wild coast and well-kept footpaths, Boscastle is a wonderful base. Our campsite at Lower Pennycrocker Farm is about two miles away, and many of our guests spend several days exploring National Trust land nearby.
What the National Trust looks after
Boscastle harbour
The harbour, with its stone walls usually dated to the 1580s, is at the heart of the Trust's land in Boscastle. The Trust cares for the harbour structures, much of the quayside and several historic buildings. Our Boscastle harbour guide covers what to see.
The visitor centre
Near the main car park, the National Trust visitor centre has information about the harbour, the area's history and its wildlife, plus a shop. It is a good first stop to pick up ideas for walks. Opening times vary by season, so check the Trust's website before you go.
Willapark and the headlands
The headlands on either side of the harbour mouth, including Willapark with its white lookout tower, are part of the Trust's coast. See our Willapark lookout guide.
Forrabury Stitches
The Trust looks after the Forrabury Stitches, rare medieval strip fields on the headland above the village. Read more in our Forrabury Stitches guide.
The Valency valley
Parts of the wooded Valency valley inland from the village are cared for by the Trust and are crossed by paths leading to St Juliot and beyond.
The coast path
The South West Coast Path runs through Boscastle. Much of the coast between Boscastle and Tintagel, and north towards Crackington Haven, is National Trust land.
National Trust places nearby
Lower Pennycrocker Farm makes a good base for exploring more National Trust places in North Cornwall:
- Tintagel coast: much of the coast around Tintagel is Trust land, though Tintagel Castle itself is run by English Heritage. See our Tintagel page.
- Crackington Haven and the coast north: dramatic cliffs and quiet paths.
- Port Quin and the coast near Port Isaac: an old fishing cove with Trust land around it. See our Port Quin and Port Gaverne guide.
- Lanhydrock: a grand house and estate near Bodmin. See our Lanhydrock day trip.
Check the National Trust website for opening times and any admission charges before you travel.
Tips for National Trust members
- Bring your membership card: some Trust car parks are free for members. Not every car park in Boscastle belongs to the Trust, so read the signs.
- Download a walk: the Trust publishes walking routes for many of its places.
- Support local: the shop and visitor centre help fund the care of the area.
Respecting the countryside
The National Trust land around Boscastle is farmed and grazed, and it is home to a lot of wildlife. Please:
- Keep dogs on a lead near livestock and on the cliffs.
- Stay on paths, especially near cliff edges.
- Close gates behind you.
- Take all litter home.
- Respect any temporary closures for nesting birds or path repairs.
A National Trust day around Boscastle
- Morning: start at the visitor centre, then walk to the harbour and up to Willapark.
- Lunch: eat in the village. See places to eat in Boscastle.
- Afternoon: walk across the Forrabury Stitches to the church, or head inland along the Valency valley.
- Evening: drive back to the campsite for sunset over the sea from the fields.
Why the Trust's work matters here
After the 2004 flood, the National Trust was closely involved in repairing and restoring the harbour area and its historic buildings. The Trust also manages the land to protect wildflowers, birds and the old field patterns, while keeping the coast open for walkers. Visitors who enjoy the area help support that work when they use Trust car parks, shops and cafés.
Wildlife on National Trust land
Look out for:
- Seabirds such as fulmars, gannets and shags.
- Skylarks and stonechats on the cliff tops.
- Wildflowers such as thrift and sea campion in spring.
- Seals in the sea below the cliffs.
Bring binoculars and a field guide for the best experience.
Accessibility
The level path from the main car park to the harbour is one of the easiest routes in the village, with the visitor centre close by. Beyond the harbour, the headlands and coast path are steep, with steps and uneven ground, so they will not suit everyone. Contact the National Trust before your visit if you need detailed access information.
Families and the Trust
Children enjoy spotting boats in the harbour, watching for the blowhole and looking out for seals from the headlands. The Trust often runs family activities and trails at its bigger places in the summer holidays, so check its events listings for ideas during your stay.
Frequently asked questions
Does the National Trust own Boscastle harbour?
The National Trust cares for the harbour and much of the land around it.
Is there National Trust parking in Boscastle?
Check the signs at the car park you use. Not every car park in the village belongs to the Trust, so members' parking may not apply everywhere.
Is Tintagel Castle National Trust?
No. Tintagel Castle is run by English Heritage, although much of the surrounding coast is National Trust land.
How far is the National Trust visitor centre from the campsite?
It is in Boscastle, about two miles from Lower Pennycrocker Farm.
Bring binoculars: our guide to wildlife on the north Cornwall coast covers choughs, seals and seabirds.
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.
