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Boscastle proves to be a charming fishing village and port located along Cornwall's north coast. It is surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the River Jordan and River Valency valleys. At only five miles from Tintagel, the little village also makes a convenient base for exploring the mysteries of King Arthur.
History and Geography
The Boscastle village name comes from the castle that overlooked the village. This Bottreaux Castle was built in the 1100's and represented a typical motte and bailey type of fortress. Very little in the way of ruins remain from it.
The harbour of Boscastle developed when Sir Richard Grenville of the HMS navy ship Revenge built two stone harbour walls here in the year 1584. This gave it a wonderful protected natural inlet to shelter fishing boats and trade ships. It also made it the only important harbour for fully twenty miles down the coast.
Besides its history as a fishing harbour, the village used to be a little port. Many of the little towns along the coast had this role in the past centuries. Boscastle port exported area produce and slate. It imported coal and limestone. These days are now long passed. The trade has been replaced by tourism.
The oldest portions of Boscastle lie on the harbour. Newer residential structures have expanded the village. They lie in the River Jordan valley and River Valency valley.
Tourism Attractions
The village and its charming harbour have turned into an enormously beloved place for tourists. Besides the nature of the village and buildings itself, there are the Boscastle pottery shop and the interesting Museum of Witchcraft. The land here has been purchased and protected by the National trust. The two sides of the harbour are part of their holdings. So are the Forrabury Stitches that are found high above the village. These are ancient plots for cultivation. Much of the Valency Valley has also been purchased by them since it has strong ties to author Thomas Hardy, who met his wife while working in the town. The old harbour stables have been turned into a YHA administered youth hostel. Walkers using the South West Coast Path love to stay here. The Old Smithy is now a visitor centre. The National Trust operates a shop down at the harbour. Travelers who have never been here before will find this a breathtaking place to visit and amble around.
Activities
People who enjoy strolling around the picturesque Cornish countryside will find plenty to do in Boscastle. There are numerous inland as well as coastal walks that start or pass by here. In season from March to October there are routine fishing trips that visitors can go out on and enjoy.
Another attraction that is nearby and should not be overlooked is Tintagel town and castle. The legends of King Arthur are showcased and explored at the Arthurian Centre. There is an exhibition on him, lovely walks along the river, and ruins and remains that are connected with the legendary king to see. The castle is also a famed destination associated with him. King Arthur was born here. This is also where he fought his last battle with Mordred, according to the stories and legends. Merlin's cave can be explored by visitors who wish to climb up the steep path.
Accommodation in Boscastle
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