Sunsets and stargazing in North Cornwallnotes from the farm

Reviews of Lower Pennycrocker Farm often mention the sunsets. Our fields look out over open country towards the coast, and on a clear evening the whole sky turns orange and pink. This guide covers where to watch the sunset near Boscastle and how to enjoy the night sky when you're camping.

Why North Cornwall sunsets are so good

The north coast faces broadly west and north-west, out over the Atlantic. With no land between you and the horizon, the sun sets straight into the sea for much of the year. Clean Atlantic air and towering clouds after a shower often make the colours even stronger.

Best sunset spots near the campsite

On the farm

The easiest option: pull up a camping chair outside your tent or caravan and watch. Many guests time dinner to match.

Crackington Haven

The cove faces west and the cliffs on either side frame the sunset. Several photos on this site were taken there. See Crackington Haven.

Willapark, Boscastle

The headland above Boscastle harbour gives wide views along the coast. Bring a torch for the walk down and take care on the path.

Widemouth Bay

A broad beach south of Bude with a long sea horizon, ideal for sunset at low tide. See Bude day trip.

Tintagel

The headland and the coast path around Tintagel are dramatic in the evening light. See Tintagel.

Sunset safety

• Check the sunset time and leave enough light to walk back.
• Carry a head torch on cliff paths.
• Stay well back from cliff edges, which can be undercut.
• On beaches, check the tide so you don't get cut off.

Stargazing from the campsite

Away from big towns, North Cornwall has dark skies. On clear, moonless nights you may see the Milky Way from the fields. Tips:

• Turn off lanterns and let your eyes adjust for 20 minutes.
• Use a red light torch to keep your night vision.
• Download a free star-map app to identify constellations.
• Check the moon phase; a new moon gives the darkest skies.
• Bring a blanket or reclining chair and warm layers, as nights are cool even in summer.

What to look for

In summer, look for the Summer Triangle overhead and the Milky Way running through it. In August the Perseid meteor shower can produce shooting stars. In autumn, look for the Andromeda galaxy as a faint smudge on very dark nights.

Respecting fellow campers

Please keep voices low late at night and avoid shining lights at other pitches. Quiet nights are part of what makes a farm site special.

Photographing sunsets

• Arrive 30 minutes before sunset and stay 20 minutes after; the afterglow is often best.
• Use foreground features, such as rocks, a tent or a gate, to add depth.
• Brace your phone or camera to avoid blur in low light.

For reference, our 2026 prices per night are: adults £10, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Awnings and showers are free, parking is beside your pitch and groups are limited to 8 people. We are open from 1 April to 31 October and reception is open 9am–7pm. See pitches & prices for the details.

FAQs

Check availability at Lower Pennycrocker Farm