Practical tips on choosing and pitching a tent that will cope with Cornwall's coastal wind and rain.
Camping on the Cornish coast is wonderful: sea views, big skies and fresh air. But that fresh air sometimes arrives as a strong Atlantic wind, and showers can blow in quickly. The right tent, pitched well, makes all the difference. This guide shares what we've learned from watching campers pitch in our fields near Boscastle, on the exposed north coast.
What to look for in a tent
Shape
- Tunnel tents are roomy and popular with families. They are very good in wind when pitched end-on, but can catch the wind if pitched side-on.
- Dome and geodesic tents have crossing poles and are often very stable in wind from any direction.
- Inflatable (air beam) tents are quick to pitch and can cope well with wind, as the beams flex rather than snap. Make sure they are well guyed.
- Large, tall tents catch more wind. If you camp on exposed coasts, a lower profile tent is easier to manage.
Hydrostatic head
The hydrostatic head (HH) indicates how waterproof the fabric is. A higher HH number means more waterproof. Look for a reasonable rating for the flysheet, especially for spring and autumn trips. Taped seams are also important.
Pole strength
Good-quality poles are worth the money. Steel or strong aluminium poles, or well-made air beams, will flex in gusts without breaking.
Guy lines and pegging points
Plenty of guy points around the tent help spread the load in wind. Check how many the tent has before buying.
Pegs make the difference
The pegs supplied with many tents are thin and short. On firm, grassy ground, upgrade to:
- Strong steel or aluminium pegs for the main guys.
- Longer pegs for soft ground.
- Rock pegs for very hard ground.
Bring a mallet and a peg extractor. Push pegs in at about 45 degrees, leaning away from the tent.
Pitching in the wind
- Check the forecast and wind direction before choosing your spot.
- Pitch with the narrow or lowest end facing the wind. For tunnel tents, this usually means the back of the tent.
- Peg the windward side first, then raise the tent.
- Attach all the guy lines, not just a few, and tension them evenly.
- Use a windbreak, but not so close that it funnels wind onto the tent.
- Re-tension guys in the evening and after rain, as fabric can stretch.
If the wind is very strong, it's sometimes better to wait for a lull before pitching. Lowering a tent in an overnight storm is safer than risking broken poles.
Keeping dry
- Use a groundsheet protector or footprint under the tent.
- Avoid dips where rain will collect.
- Ventilate the tent to cut condensation, even on cold nights.
- Keep wet gear in the porch or a separate shelter.
- Pack a spare towel or two for wet days.
Sea-view pitches
Sea views are one of the joys of camping in North Cornwall. They also often come with more wind. If you have a choice, consider the shelter of a hedge for your tent and walk a few steps to enjoy the view. Our sunsets and stargazing post has some ideas.
Tent size
Big tents are comfortable for families, but can be more difficult to pitch on exposed sites. Our groups are limited to eight people, so most families find a four- to six-berth tent ideal. Pup tents for children are free at Lower Pennycrocker Farm.
Other kit for the Cornish coast
- Windbreak.
- Warm sleeping bags, rated for cooler nights, even in summer.
- Insulated sleeping mats.
- Waterproofs for every member of the family.
- Head torches.
See our North Cornwall camping packing list for the full kit list.
When the weather turns
Cornwall's weather is changeable. If a storm is forecast, take down large awnings, check guys and bring loose items inside. On a wet day, head out: Boscastle has cafés and the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, and there are many rainy day ideas nearby.
Practise at home
If your tent is new, pitch it once in the garden or a park before your trip. You'll find out how the poles go together, whether any pegs or guy lines are missing, and how long it takes. Pitching for the first time in a breeze on a clifftop field is not much fun. Practice also lets you check the seams for leaks with a hose.
Looking after your tent
- Dry your tent fully at home before storing it, to avoid mould.
- Brush off sand and grass.
- Store pegs and poles separately so they don't damage the fabric.
- Re-proof the flysheet every few seasons.
Camping at Lower Pennycrocker Farm
Our tent pitches are on open grass fields, about two miles from Boscastle, with sea views and dark skies. Adults are £10 per night and children aged 5 and over are £5. Read more on our tent camping page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best tent shape for wind?
Dome and geodesic tents are usually very stable. Tunnel tents work well if pitched end-on to the wind.
Do I need better pegs?
Often, yes. Strong steel or aluminium pegs make a big difference.
Is Cornwall too windy for camping?
No. With a well-pitched tent and good pegs, most campers are fine. Check the forecast and be prepared.
Can I bring a pup tent for the kids?
Yes. Pup tents are free at Lower Pennycrocker Farm.
New to camping? Start with our page on first-time camping in Cornwall. Check the wind before you pitch: our guide to north Cornwall weather for campers explains how to read the forecast.
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.
Travelling with a rooftop tent? Read our page on rooftop tent camping in Cornwall and call us to check a pitch.
