Follow the River Valency inland from Boscastle harbour through woodland to St Juliot church, the church Thomas Hardy restored, on this classic circular walk.
The Valency Valley walk is the gentle, green alternative to Boscastle's dramatic cliffs. Instead of heading out along the coast, you follow the River Valency inland through ancient woodland, past old mill sites and stepping stones, to the little church of St Juliot, where the young Thomas Hardy worked as an architect and fell in love. Our campsite sits in St Juliot parish, so this is very much our home valley.
This guide gives an outline of the route. Use an Ordnance Survey map (Explorer 111 covers this area) or a walking app for the detail, as paths and signs can change.
Walk at a glance
| Start | Main car park, Boscastle |
| Distance | Roughly 4–5 miles for the full circuit |
| Time | 2.5–3.5 hours with stops |
| Terrain | Woodland paths, field edges, some quiet lanes; muddy after rain |
| Climb | Moderate, with steady climbs out of the valley |
| Refreshments | Cafés and pubs in Boscastle; none on the route itself |
The route in outline
Boscastle to the woods
From the main car park, find the path signed up the valley beside the river. Within minutes the noise of the village falls away and you are in shady woodland, with the Valency running beside you. In spring the banks are full of bluebells, wild garlic and ferns.
The river here looks tiny and peaceful. It is hard to picture it as the torrent that roared through the village in 2004. Our post on the Boscastle flood of 2004 explains what happened that day.
Minster church (optional detour)
Partway up the valley, paths climb through the trees to Minster church, a small, ancient church tucked into a wooded hollow. It is the parish church of Boscastle, and its quiet churchyard is a lovely place to pause. Return to the valley path to continue.
Up the valley to St Juliot
The path continues through woods and then into more open fields, crossing the river by footbridges. Follow the signs for St Juliot. The final section climbs out of the valley to the church, which sits on its own among fields.
St Juliot church
St Juliot is the church Thomas Hardy came to restore in 1870, when he was a young architect. He met Emma Gifford, the rector's sister-in-law, who later became his first wife. Inside you will find reminders of Hardy, including a memorial window. Our post on Thomas Hardy, St Juliot and Boscastle tells the full story.
Please be respectful: it is a working parish church.
Back to Boscastle
You can return the way you came, which is the simplest option, or loop back on paths and quiet lanes along the high ground. The higher return has wide views over the valley and out to sea. Take care on lanes, which are narrow and have no pavements.
Tips for walking the Valency Valley
- Boots, not trainers: the woodland paths stay muddy long after rain.
- Go in spring or autumn: bluebells in April and May, and golden leaves in October.
- Dogs: this is a good walk for dogs, but keep them on a lead through fields with livestock and near the lanes. See our Boscastle with dogs guide.
- Shade on hot days: much of the route is under trees, so it is a good choice when the cliffs feel too exposed.
- Combine it: end the day at the harbour, or start early and add the Willapark headland.
Walking from the campsite
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is in St Juliot parish, about two miles from Boscastle. Confident walkers with a map can link the campsite to the valley via lanes and public footpaths. Many guests simply drive to Boscastle, park, and walk the circuit from the village. Ask us at reception and we will point you in the right direction.
For more routes, including the coast path north and south, see our walks near Boscastle page and our pick of the best walks from Boscastle.
Wildlife to look out for
The Valency is a wooded valley with a clean river, and patient walkers may see:
- Dippers and grey wagtails on the stones in the river.
- Buzzards circling over the fields.
- Woodland birds such as nuthatches and treecreepers.
- Wildflowers through spring and early summer.
What to bring
- An OS map or a walking app with offline maps, as phone signal is patchy in the valley.
- Waterproof jacket, even in summer, since showers blow in quickly from the Atlantic.
- Water and snacks, as there is nowhere to buy food once you leave the village.
- A small towel for muddy paws or boots before you get back in the car.
A shorter option
If you only have an hour or have small children with you, walk from the car park up the valley path for 20 to 30 minutes, enjoy the river and the woods, and turn back. You still get the best of the woodland scenery without the climb to St Juliot.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Valency Valley walk?
The full circuit from Boscastle to St Juliot church and back is roughly 4–5 miles. Allow two and a half to three and a half hours.
Is the Valency Valley walk suitable for children?
Yes, for children who are used to walking. The first part along the river is fairly gentle and makes a good short out-and-back walk for younger children.
Is there a café on the walk?
Not on the route itself. Eat in Boscastle before or after.
Can I walk from Lower Pennycrocker Farm?
Yes, with a map, using lanes and footpaths. Ask us for directions when you arrive.
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.
Much of the harbour, valley and coast around Boscastle is cared for by the National Trust. Our National Trust Boscastle guide covers the visitor centre, parking and the best walks.
