Boscastle is one of the most dramatic villages in Cornwall, but its geography, a steep, narrow ravine, means parking options are very specific. Unlike other towns where you can drive around hunting for a spot, Boscastle essentially relies on one main hub.
The “Golden Rule” for Boscastle is simple: Head straight for the bottom of the valley. There is very little street parking, and the roads on the hill are tight, steep, and often single-track.
Our Top Picks
Because options are limited, your choice depends mostly on what vehicle you are driving and how early you arrive.
- Best for Everything (The Main Hub): Cobweb Car Park. This is where 99% of visitors should go. It is flat, central, and close to the harbour.
- Best for Upper Village & Pubs: Community Centre Car Park. Useful if you want to visit the Napoleon Inn or the top of the village without the steep walk up.
- Best for Campervans: Cobweb Car Park (Rear). There are designated larger spaces at the very back near the stream, but they fill up fast.
The Main Council Car Park
This is the primary car park for the village. It is run by Cornwall Council and uses the ‘JustPark’ app. It is located right next to the river and the Visitor Centre.
Cobweb Car Park (Long Stay)
Postcode: PL35 0HE
Capacity: ~250 spaces
Best For: The Harbour, Museum of Witchcraft, Valency Valley walks, and the Farm Shop. It is the only large car park in the village.
Note: In the height of summer (August), this car park can fill up by 11:00 AM. If it is full, you may be directed to a seasonal overflow field, usually signposted on the approach road.
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Upper Village & Alternative Parking
If you are heading to the older part of the village (at the top of the hill) or if the main car park is absolutely gridlocked, these are your backup options.
Boscastle Community Centre
Postcode: PL35 0DS
Capacity: Small (~20 spaces)
Best For: Visiting the upper village, the Napoleon Inn, or avoiding the steep walk up from the harbour. It is a community-run facility, so please be respectful and check the donation/payment signage.
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Street Parking (Fore Street / Dunn Street)
Warning: Not Recommended.
Best For: Quick stops only if you are extremely lucky.
Description: There are a handful of on-street spaces on the hill, but the roads are narrow and buses use this route. It is usually much less stressful to park at the bottom and walk, or use the Community Centre at the top.
Finding a space here is generally easier than in St Ives, provided you aim for the main car park first. View our complete guide to Boscastle.