Situated as the mouth of the River Valency, Boscastle features a sheltered natural harbour that used to export slate and corn.  The first pier was built here in 1547 and the 19th century pier, damaged by a drifting sea mine in 1941 has been restored by the National Trust. 

Today there are a number of charming old buildings, lime wached cottage and pubs.  Local attractions include a museum of witchcraft and a Crystal cave.  Nearby is the Church of  St Juliot that was restored by the poet and author, Thomas Hardy, in 1870.