Boscastle

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Boscastle, in Cornish, Kastel Boterel, is a picturesque harbour village of stone cottages lying at the foot of a steep sided valley on the convergence of the rivers Valency and Jordan.

It's long and narrow harbour winds its way, snakelike, to the Atlantic Ocean, with the village at its head, sheltered between rocky cliffs. The quay is Elizabethan, sheltering between steep cliffs.

Five churches lie within a short distance of the village, St Juliot, Minster, Trevalga, Lesnewth and Forrabury. St Juliot, Forrabury and Minster are associated with Boscastle. St Juliot church is famous for its association with the Victorian author, Thomas Hardy.

Boscastle suffered the terrible effects of flash flooding in 2004. The village was devastated by the torrent of water which swept through its centre. Fortunately, the strength of the local community pulling together got the village back on its feet very quickly and it has returned to its former glory, a beautiful harbour village with an ancient history in addition to these more recent events which now form part of its attraction.

On the southern side of the inlet, in the rocky area outside the harbour, is a natural
bathing pool in the rocks.

Much of Boscastle and its surrounding countryside is owned by the National Trust.

A National Coastwatch Institution lookout is located on Willapark on the southern side of Boscastle harbour. The unusual building was formerly a folly.

The Cornwall Coast Path passes through Boscastle.


Film and TV Trivia

Boscastle and the surrounding area have been used in the filming of the popular television series 'Doc Martin' and in the film 'Saving Grace'.


Where to Stay in Boscastle


Tide Times in Boscastle

Books online:
Click here to buy books online about Boscastle

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