The most magical corner of Cornwall 🪄
There’s no denying that North East Cornwall is an almost mystical place.
Sure, it’s touristy and there aren’t many hidden spots, BUT it’s popular for a reason. Dramatic cliffs, postcard-perfect beaches, King Arthur connections, dramatic waterfalls… this area of Cornwall will enchant even the weariest of travellers.
If you’re wondering how to plan a trip, here’s a North East Cornwall itinerary from Bude to Port Isaac, designed as a 3-day road trip. The route sticks close to the coast and includes short walks, viewpoints, beaches and villages, while avoiding any backtracking.
You could stretch this to 4 days if you wanted more time in each place or to do longer walks – or even longer if you want to chill out in any of these locations!
🗺️ Overview
- Day 1: Bude → Widemouth Bay → Crackington Haven
- Day 2: Crackington Haven → Boscastle → Tintagel
- Day 3: Tintagel → Trebarwith Strand → Port Isaac
Each day includes specific stops that flow logically down the A39 and along the coast. Accommodation options exist in each main stop, but Boscastle, Tintagel and Port Isaac are the best-served.
🚗 Day 1: From Bude to Crackington Haven
Start in Bude
Take the morning to explore Bude if you haven’t already. Walk along the canal towpath, grab coffee from Electric Bakery, and stroll up to Compass Point for sweeping views of the Atlantic.
See my list of things to do in Bude.
Stop at Widemouth Bay
Just a short drive south, this wide beach (as the name suggests!) is ideal for a walk or a paddle – it’s popular for surfers too.
There’s easy parking and good visibility down the coast. The cliffs to the south have a short stretch of coast path with dramatic sea views.
Dizzard Point
If you’re keen on heritage or archaeology, stop at The Dizzard for coastal oak woodland with lichens and Bronze Age barrows. It’s a lesser-known area but good for a 1–2 hour walk.
End in Crackington Haven
Tiny but scenic, with a cove flanked by dark folded cliffs. Ideal for sunset if the weather plays ball. There’s a pub (Coombe Barton Inn) and café here, and short coast path options in both directions. Stay overnight if possible — it’s quiet, with few crowds.
🏞️ Day 2: Crackington Haven to Tintagel (via Boscastle)
Boscastle Harbour Walk
Spend your morning in Boscastle. Walk along the harbour walls, then take the short hike up to Penally Point or the longer one to Willapark Lookout. Pop into the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic if open.
St Juliot’s Church is a few minutes inland and is linked with Thomas Hardy. It’s quiet, historic and atmospheric.
Click here to see my full guide to Boscastle.
Lunch in Boscastle or Trethevy
You’ll find a couple of decent options in Boscastle itself, or try The Mill House Inn tucked in the woods between Boscastle and Tintagel.
Afternoon: Tintagel Castle
Drive to Tintagel. The castle is the headline stop, and you’ll need a couple of hours if you’re doing the full crossing over the footbridge and walk down to the beach.
Advance booking is a good idea in high season. Afterward, consider the coast path up to Barras Nose or explore St Materiana’s Church.
Stay the night in Tintagel or nearby.
Click here to see my full list of the best things to do in Tintagel.
🌊 Day 3: Tintagel to Port Isaac
Trebarwith Strand
Start the day with a walk on this tidal beach (check times – it disappears at high tide). There’s a good clifftop hike to Backways Cove or up to Treknow for a loop back down.
Delabole
Quick inland hop – there are a few pubs here for lunch. If interested, you can make a brief stop at Delabole Slate Quarry, one of the oldest in England. They do tours occasionally – more information here.
Arrive in Port Isaac
Spend your afternoon exploring Port Isaac. Wander the lanes, walk down to the harbour, or take the coast path to Port Gaverne (short but scenic). Music fans might enjoy timing their visit with a Fisherman’s Friends performance. There are also several excellent places to eat, though reservations are often needed.
Stay the night here if you’re not continuing further.
Journeying on? You could head to Polzeath, Rock or Padstow – all are nearby.
