Boscastle is a somewhat magical village on the north coast of Cornwall. Set deep in a rocky rift with a bubbling river at it’s base, flowing into a sheltered natural harbour. It is hard to believe as you wander through the village today, that in 2004, it suffered extensive damage after severe flooding. An exceptional amount of rain throughout the day on the 16th August caused the river to burst it’s banks. The ensuing flash flooding was filmed and extensively reported, being the worst in local memory. Although miraculously, nobody was badly injured, the destruction was vast. When the waters receded the following day the streets were strewn with cars, boulders and uprooted trees, shops were torn in half and many houses were uninhabitable.
The South West Coast Path passes right through the village of Boscastle. The section between Boscastle and Tintagel is well worth walking and has amazing clifftop scenery. Alternatively take a short walk on the surrounding cliffs of Boscastle.
See Also: A Day Out In Tintagel
After wandering through the village of Boscastle and out to the surrounding cliff tops we were all hungry. It was time for a cream tea, so we headed to the Boscastle Farm Shop, a little out of the main village. This place has rave reviews on trip advisor so we were keen to visit. Located on the South West Coast Path the farm shop has beautiful views from it’s restaurant and outdoor seating area. The cream teas are exceptional, large fluffy scones with delicious home-made strawberry jam and clotted cream. The best we’ve ever had! After our cream teas it was time for a walk so we set off along the coastal path. Cornish scenery at it’s best…
Our last stop of the day was Trebarwith Strand. Here the sandy beach becomes completely covered at high tide and is then accessed over rocks. The boys loved climbing on the rocks while we enjoyed a drink at the Port William. The location of the Port William on the cliff top overlooking Trebarwith Strand is spectacular. A perfect place for an afternoon drink or to watch the sunset over the sea.
WHERE WE STAYED
We spent a week in Port Issac, from where it is easy to explore much of the north of Cornwall.
MORE READING…
Top 10 Things to Do in Port Issac
