Toddler-Friendly Days Out near Boscastlenotes from the farm

North Cornwall is wonderful with small children, but not every famous spot suits a toddler. Steep cliff paths, long flights of steps and crowded car parks can turn a day out into hard work. These are the days out our guests with young children enjoy most from Lower Pennycrocker Farm near Boscastle, chosen for short distances, gentle paths and plenty to look at. For babies, see also camping with a baby in Cornwall.

Boscastle harbour

Boscastle is about two miles from the farm and makes an easy first outing. The harbour, the river and the boats keep small children interested, there are cafés and toilets near the main car park, and the walk from the car park to the harbour is short. Hold hands near the harbour walls, which have drops into the water. Our guide to Boscastle with kids has more ideas, and the Boscastle parking guide explains where to leave the car.

Toddler tip: go early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the village is quieter. See when is Boscastle busy?

Rock pools at Crackington Haven

Crackington Haven is about five miles away, with a sandy and pebbly beach and rock pools at low tide. Toddlers love peering into pools for crabs and anemones. Check the tide times first and go on a falling tide. Water shoes help on the rocks. Remember that dogs are banned from Crackington Haven beach from 10am to 6pm between 15 May and 30 September.

Bude's beaches and sea pool

Bude has big, open beaches, seasonal lifeguard cover on the main beaches, and plenty of facilities. Summerleaze beach is close to the town centre and car parks, and the tidal sea pool at the foot of the cliffs gives a calmer place to paddle. Check what lifeguard cover is in place on the day. Our Bude day trip page has more.

Flat, buggy-friendly walks

Most of the coast path is too steep and narrow for a buggy. Flatter alternatives include:

• The Camel Trail: a mostly level former railway line between Wadebridge and Padstow, about 35–40 minutes' drive. See our Camel Trail guide.
• The Bude Canal towpath: a level path from the town alongside the canal.
• The Valency valley: the lower part, near Boscastle, is a gentle riverside walk, though it becomes rougher further up. See Valency valley walk.

A carrier is more useful than a buggy for most coastal walks.

Short trips for nap-time drives

A drive of 20 to 40 minutes is often perfect for a sleepy toddler. From the farm, that brings Bude, Tintagel, Port Isaac and Wadebridge within reach. Tintagel Castle involves a lot of steps and steep paths, so with a toddler it may be better to enjoy the village and the views. Port Isaac is steep too, but the harbour is fun to look at.

Rainy days

When the weather turns, see rainy days in north Cornwall for indoor options. A drive to a café with a view is sometimes all a toddler needs.

Back at the farm

For many toddlers the best part of the holiday is the campsite itself: space to run around, tractors, the sound of birds and bedtime in a tent. There is no play area at Lower Pennycrocker Farm, so bring a ball, a few outdoor toys and a scooter for the car park. Showers are free and the washing-up room makes bottle and cup washing easier.

Practical tips for camping with toddlers

• Bring a familiar blanket and a night light.
• Pack spare clothes in a dry bag in the car.
• Keep meals simple: see easy camping meals.
• Read camping with kids in Cornwall and our family camping in Cornwall page.

Children aged 5 and over are £5 a night; please mention younger children when you book.

Frequently asked questions

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.