Bodmin

Bodmin is a town steeped in history and surrounded by some of the UK’s most beautiful countryside. Whether you decide to stop by on a day trip or use it as the base for your hot tub holiday, you will be blown away by this attractive town.

History

If you fancy delving into Bodmin’s history there is plenty to see and do. Why not hop on a steam train at the Bodmin and Wenford Railway. This train journey is an ideal way to see parts of the countryside that aren’t accessible by car. Get off the train at Boscarne Junction and join the Camel Trail, a footpath connecting Padstow and Wadebridge. Once back at the centre, take a look at the engine shed and the souvenir shop and pick up something special to mark the occasion.

Start a history filled day with a trip to Bodmin Jail. Take a tour through the darkness of the jail and uncover some of the area’s grisly past. Part of the jail has now even been converted into a hotel! Next on your history tour, head to the Shire Hall Courtroom Experience. Witness a trial in the courtroom that many of those inmates in the Bodmin jail had experienced before. Take a tour around the holding cells and compare them to those seen in the town’s main jail. Finally, take a look around the Town or Military Museum for a broader look at the past of this part of Cornwall.

Nature

Bodmin moor is one of the country’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so it’s well worth taking a look at. This granite moor is home to Cornwall’s highest church as well as Bronze age remains. You can also find a brilliantly preserved Celtic holy well. You can hike up to the highest point in Cornwall or follow one of the many other walking trails across the moor. Look out for ancient monuments such as the Hurlers standing stone circle while exploring the moorland.

Stannon moor is another section of moorland that offers stunning views and a well preserved stone circle. A circular walk around Stannon moor offers incredible views over Bodmin moor itself. Finally, Bodmin Beacon is yet another area where nature’s beauty thrives. With young woodland and grassland at the base of the beacon, you can really see the integration between different habitats. For something a little different why not take a day trip to one of Cornwall’s quaint coastal towns such as Looe or Padstow. Here you can enjoy the incredible natural coastline that Cornwall is so well known for.

Things to do nearby

If history and nature aren’t your thing, there are plenty of attractions close to Bodmin that you’re sure to enjoy. Segway Lakeview offers an off-road Segway challenge like no other. After being taught the basics you can be taken on a tour by the owner and test your new Segway skills. This is a great way to get into the countryside while keeping adrenaline and excitement levels up. Why not spend a warm afternoon at the Camel Valley Vineyard.

Here you can enjoy a glass of wine overlooking the vineyards as the sun sets. Or, stay a little longer and take a tour of the premises to see the process all the way from grape to wine. Then complete your tour with a wine tasting. Don’t feel like this is an adult only experience, under 18s are welcome and receive a soft drink with the tastings. Or, take a moment to relax in the grounds of Lanhydrock. This idyllic National Trust Site comprises of a house with expertly manicured gardens and a magical wooded estate. Compare the difference between the lives of the family and the staff thanks to the insightful layout of this brilliant Victorian house.

Bodmin is an excellent spot for taking life at a slower pace and exploring the history and nature surrounding it. Its central point in the county allows for day trips to both Devon and Cornwall during your stay.