Leisure Activities in Cornwall
Boscastle Local Attractions
Boscastle harbour and headlands [with their glorious sunsets] have been owned by the National Trust since 1956 and as a result, remain unspoilt - a tranquil haven.
The world famous Museum of Witchcraft has a wealth of relics, exhibitions, and a library. It has been miraculously restored from under the flood waters seen in Boscastle in 2004.
Both the Museum of Witchcraft and the 'Harbour Lights' house are at the end of the lane, two minutes from Pencarmol.
Harbour Lights is soon to re-open, having been re-built to exacting standards by local trades people and builders.
The village has many buildings dating back several centuries and visitors can spend time exploring the old streets, standing on the ancient castle site, or shopping in the local gift and antique shops.
Attractions near Boscastle
Within easy reach are:
- Tintagel [King Arthur Country]
- Bodmin Moor [Jamaica Inn and Dozmary Pool]
- St Juliot [Thomas Hardy's Church]
- St Enodoc [Burial place of John Betjeman]
- St Nectan's Glen [Waterfall of Antiquity]
- Rocky Valley [Neolithic carvings and a spectacular gorge leading to the sea]
Walking in North Cornwall
Pencarmol is on the Coastal Path walking route - where clifftop walks range from soft rolling ascents to the cliffs on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Valency Valley leading up to Minster Woods is a great favourite for inland walks up to the beuatiful Minster Church. The Church is one of the most picturesque buildings in Cornwall, and has been lovingly restored.
Beaches near Boscastle
Cornwall is world famous for its beaches - for sand castle makers, sun-worshippers and surfers! Different types of beaches are within a short distance by car or bus or even on foot.
The beach at Trevigue, near Boscastle [a short distance to the north] is called 'Strangles', where the breath-taking, wild and secluded clifftop scenery is well worth the climb!
Widemouth Beach is a surfing destination only a 15 minute drive from Boscastle, and famed for its silky sands and wonderful surf.
Fishing Holidays and Sea Angling
Jack and Fay [owners of Pencarmol Bed and Breakfast] regularly go fishing off the cliffs nearby to catch breakfast in the form of Mackerel!
This is an activity that can also be organised for their guests, with the loan of fishing rods and other equipment.
For guests who would like to go sea angling, off shore or wreck fishing, a local fishing boat is available every day during the summer season. Other boat trips can be taken close to Pencarmol.
Shopping and Golfing near Boscastle
As well as the traditional local gift shops and craft studios, there is a shopping 'Mall' at Atlantic Village, with designer outlets for shoes and clothing. Ideal for days with bad weather and only a hlaf hour drive away along the Atlantic Highway!
If golfing is your favourite pastime, there are at least three links golf courses within easy reach.
The nearest of these is at Bude, 20 minutes away - The Bude and North Cornwall Golf Club [surrounded by the town and the sea] is a challenging links course established in 1891.
Historic Local Boat Launch!
The launch of the Boscastle local community 'Gig' named 'Torrent' for good reason, is pictured here. Crewed by village folk and set to race against other Cornish communities, Torrent was hand made by local craftsmen using centuries old methods.
Launched in the spring of 2006 with due ceremony, the boat was blessed by the Reverend Christine Musser and liberally doused in Champagne!
Artists and Painting Holidays
Jack [owner of the B&B] has his own studio at the back of the house at Pencarmol, and here he relaxes by painting - his work includes oil paintings, acrylics and watercolours.
Guests can borrow his equipment and ask for tips on their painting technique!
Live Music in Cornwall - All Year Round
The village of Boscastle has a thriving community of musicians who play regularly in the local pubs, notably on a Wednesday night when 'The Boscastle Busker' and friends usually appear!
On Saturday nights at the Cobweb Inn there is often Rock Music, and on Sunday afternoons there is live folk. Visiting musicians frequently stay at Pencarmol and play in the lounge or garden.