Boscastle is a scenic village with undulating grassy hills overlooking an active harbour. Although it once played a key role in importing limestone and coal, this old port town is now a sleepy commune with scenic walking paths. Embark on a hike around part of the South West Coast Path, a long-distance trail that extends for 630 miles (1,014 kilometres) from Somerset, through Devon and Cornwall, all the way to Dorset.
The town’s name is synonymous with the devastating flash floods of 2004, which destroyed much of its infrastructure and trapped residents on roofs. Chat to locals to hear first-hand accounts of how cars and buildings were swept away in the disaster.
Stroll through the natural harbour, which is set at the confluence of three rivers and the sea, and soak up the pleasant scenery. Follow nature trails that lead through wooded areas and along the meandering Valency River. Nearby, the Lookout vantage point offers excellent views of the craggy headlands.
Among the most fascinating sites in town is the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, which recounts the history of spells and curses across Europe. Peruse strange objects such as poppets and pricking tools and learn about Freemasonry, Wicca and other types of folk magic.
Wander through town to encounter quaint buildings such as a bakery, souvenir shops, pottery galleries and whitewashed cottages. Also in town is the former site of the old Botreaux Castle, from which the settlement takes its name. Only scant ruins of the hilltop castle remain.
The town is on the northern coast of Cornwall, 32 miles (51 kilometres) north of Newquay. Buses connect the village to other parts of the region, including the towns of Bude and Tintagel. Summers are warm and winters are mild and stormy here, though rain is common throughout the year.
Boscastle has stunning natural surrounds, an unusual museum and a harbour that is among the most scenic in Cornwall.
