Bodmin Moor
1 / 10

Bodmin Moor

4.7
·123 reviews·, United Kingdom

Vast, untamed moorland in Cornwall, famed for ancient stone circles, rugged tors, and the legend of the Beast.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, warmer temps

CrowdMedium
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Bodmin Moor

Bodmin Moor

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, warmer temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vast, untamed moorland in Cornwall, famed for ancient stone circles, rugged tors, and the legend of the Beast.

4.7
(123 reviews)

"Absolutely stunning only advice I can give is to get in the car and go straight away!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for all weathers 🌦️

Moorland weather is unpredictable. Layers, waterproofs, and sturdy boots are essential for a comfortable visit.

Download offline maps 🗺️

Paths can be unclear. Ensure you have navigation tools ready, as phone signal can be spotty.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hurlers Stone Circles

Hurlers Stone Circles

Bodmin Moor

Ancient Bronze Age stone circles, steeped in mystery and offering a glimpse into prehistoric Cornwall.

Golitha Falls

Golitha Falls

River Fowey, Bodmin Moor

Enchanting woodland walks with cascading waterfalls along the River Fowey. A tranquil natural escape.

Brown Willy & Rough Tor

Brown Willy & Rough Tor

Bodmin Moor

Cornwall's highest points offer breathtaking 360-degree views and rewarding hikes for all levels.

Bodmin Jail

Bodmin Jail

Bodmin

A historic former prison, now a visitor attraction with a dark past and intriguing stories.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wild Weather

Bodmin Moor's beauty is untamed, and the weather can change rapidly. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear. Even on sunny days, the moor can feel cooler than the coast. Be prepared for fog, wind, and rain, which add to its dramatic atmosphere.

Navigate with Care

While Bodmin Moor is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, paths can be indistinct, especially in poor visibility. Download offline maps or carry a physical map and compass. Many visitors recommend sticking to marked trails for safety and to protect the fragile moorland ecosystem.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clearer skies, warmer temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Dramatic light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Spring weekdays
Why
Wildflowers bloom, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Inside a jail built in 1779! Bodmin Jail, Cornwall UK #prison #jail #oldjail #oldprison #bodminjail #PlacesToVisit #placestovisituk
@samandjessexploring
3.2K likes • 84.4K views

Pack for all weathers 🌦️

Moorland weather is unpredictable. Layers, waterproofs, and sturdy boots are essential for a comfortable visit. Reddit

Download offline maps 🗺️

Paths can be unclear. Ensure you have navigation tools ready, as phone signal can be spotty. Reddit

I’m on that grind #fyp #bodmin #cornwall
@charlesmander_
1.8K likes • 39.2K views
Bodmin, an unexpected place to visit but one that has so many things to offer. A historic market town surrounded by the beautiful Bodmin Moor, cascading rivers, entry to the Camel Trail and so much more. STAY: @ekopodcornwall @cornishtipis @southpenquitefarm @thebodminjailhotel @freerangeescapes EAT: @miss_vs_cornwall @native.burger.bodmin @snailspacecafe @woodscafe Pentyr cafe Lanhydr...
cornersofcornwall
711 likes • 19.7K views

Respect the wildlife 🐑

Observe grazing ponies, sheep, and cattle from a distance. Never feed them. Instagram

Visit Bodmin Jail 🏰

Explore the history of this atmospheric former prison, a unique attraction on the moor's edge. TikTok

• Temple, Cornwall • St Catherine’s, Temple on the wilds of Bodmin Moor. This was recorded very early in the morning and it so so atmospheric out there - this is a top recommendation for a church to visit. I hope this is of interest to those of you who asked me to visit churches with Knights Templar links in a recent post where I made a call out for places you’d like me to visit on your behalf. A...
englishpilgrim
22.9K likes • 368.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for all weathers 🌦️

Moorland weather is unpredictable. Layers, waterproofs, and sturdy boots are essential for a comfortable visit. Reddit

Download offline maps 🗺️

Paths can be unclear. Ensure you have navigation tools ready, as phone signal can be spotty. Reddit

Respect the wildlife 🐑

Observe grazing ponies, sheep, and cattle from a distance. Never feed them. Instagram

Visit Bodmin Jail 🏰

Explore the history of this atmospheric former prison, a unique attraction on the moor's edge. TikTok

Seek out stone circles 🗿

Discover ancient sites like the Hurlers for a touch of prehistoric magic and stunning views. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(123 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Bodmin Moor for its stunning, rugged beauty and opportunities for hiking and exploration. The ancient stone circles and dramatic tors are highlights, offering a sense of wildness and history. Some find the weather unpredictable and paths challenging, but most agree the desolate charm is well worth the visit.

"Visited Cornwall last year. Great walking on the moor, fun hikes up the hills. And the huge stones are very cool!"

Mark Edwards

"Beautiful, ruggered, and somehow desolate scenery. We visited the hurlers ,saw loads of tins mines, rock formations, lovely wildlife like sheep, cows, and ponies. To us, it always seems so much colder in temperature on bodmin around the hurlers"

Anita Collyer

"Really beautiful place! We did an 8km hike to the two highest peaks - Roughtor and Brown Willy - and it was fairly accessible, easy to navigate and incredibly beautiful."

Tina Golubeva

What People Like

Rugged, wild beauty
Great hiking opportunities
Ancient historical sites

What People Dislike

Unpredictable weather
Challenging paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bodmin Moor is accessible by car, with several parking areas dotted around its perimeter. The nearest major town is Bodmin, which has a train station, though it's a short drive from the moor itself. TikTok Consider using a GPS or navigation app, as roads can be narrow and winding. Reddit

Public transport options to Bodmin Moor are limited. While buses serve Bodmin town, reaching specific points on the moor often requires a car or a pre-booked taxi. Reddit Some local bus routes may pass near the edges, but check schedules carefully. Reddit

There are several informal parking spots and designated car parks around Bodmin Moor, particularly near popular walking routes like Rough Tor and Golitha Falls. Instagram Be aware that some areas may have limited facilities. Reddit

Yes, Bodmin Moor is centrally located in Cornwall, making it a feasible day trip from many coastal towns and other inland areas. Instagram Driving times will vary depending on your starting point. Reddit

While not as common as in more tourist-heavy areas, some local guides or walking groups may offer guided tours of Bodmin Moor, especially focusing on its history or wildlife. Reddit It's worth checking local tourism websites or community boards. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Bodmin Moor itself is a vast, open landscape and is free to enter and explore. Instagram There are no admission fees for the natural landscape. Reddit

Bodmin Moor is accessible 24/7 as it is a natural landscape. However, visiting during daylight hours is highly recommended for safety and visibility. Reddit

Most informal parking spots on Bodmin Moor are free. Some designated car parks might have small charges, but this is not widespread. Reddit

It is advisable to book tickets for Bodmin Jail in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. TikTok

Entry fees for Bodmin Jail vary depending on age and any special exhibitions. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing information. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Popular walks include the ascent of Rough Tor and Brown Willy for panoramic views,Instagram exploring Golitha Falls with its waterfalls,Instagram and visiting the Hurlers Stone Circles.Instagram Many trails are well-marked, but always be prepared for varied terrain. Reddit

You're likely to see native ponies, sheep, and cattle grazing freely. Keep an eye out for various bird species, and if you're lucky, you might spot some of the moor's more elusive wildlife. Instagram

Yes, Bodmin Moor offers accessible areas like Golitha Falls with its gentle paths. Instagram However, some higher ground can be challenging, so choose routes appropriate for your children's ages and abilities. Instagram

The 'Beast of Bodmin Moor' is a local legend of a large, unidentifiable feline creature said to inhabit the area. Sightings have been reported for decades, adding a layer of mystery to the moor. Instagram

Facilities are scarce on the open moor. Bodmin town and some nearby villages offer cafes and restrooms. Golitha Falls has some basic facilities. Instagram It's best to come prepared with your own refreshments and water. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

For traditional pub fare, the Old Inn in St Breward is highly recommended for its food and ales. Reddit Near Golitha Falls, Inkies offers a western-inspired menu with locally sourced meats. Reddit Bodmin town also has various eateries, including cafes and restaurants. Instagram

Cornwall is known for its pasties and cream teas. You might also find local cheeses, like the 'Dozmary' Camembert-style cheese made on the edge of Bodmin Moor. Instagram Look for local ales in traditional pubs. Reddit

Absolutely! Bodmin Moor is a perfect spot for a picnic. Find a scenic viewpoint and enjoy the natural surroundings. Remember to take all your litter with you. Instagram

While the moor itself is wild, the nearby town of Bodmin and surrounding areas offer a range of dining experiences, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Instagram Some hotels also have excellent dining facilities. Instagram

The Old Inn in St Breward is a popular choice for its atmosphere and selection of ales. Reddit Many traditional pubs in the surrounding villages offer a warm welcome and local beverages. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Hurlers Stone Circles offer dramatic compositions, especially at sunrise or sunset. Instagram Golitha Falls provides opportunities for capturing waterfalls and woodland scenes. Instagram The panoramic views from Rough Tor and Brown Willy are spectacular. Instagram The atmospheric fog can also create unique photographic opportunities. TikTok

Sunrise and sunset often provide the most dramatic light, casting long shadows and warm hues across the landscape. Instagram Misty mornings can also create a magical, ethereal atmosphere. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing waterfall motion. Instagram A polarizing filter can help manage glare on wet surfaces or enhance sky colors. Instagram

Look for the ancient standing stones, grazing ponies and sheep, the rugged tors, and the atmospheric mist. TikTok The 'Beast of Bodmin Moor' legend also adds a touch of mystery for creative shots. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check current aviation authority rules and local bylaws before flying a drone over Bodmin Moor to ensure you are compliant and respectful of the environment and other visitors. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bodmin Moor offers a fantastic outdoor playground for families. Golitha Falls is a great starting point with its accessible woodland paths and beautiful waterfalls, perfect for little legs to explore. Instagram The chance to see grazing ponies and sheep is always a hit with children. Instagram For a more adventurous outing, the hike up Brown Willy or Rough Tor can be a fun challenge, offering incredible views and a sense of accomplishment. Instagram Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited on the open moor. Reddit Bodmin Jail also provides an engaging, albeit slightly spooky, historical experience that can captivate older children. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For serious hikers, Bodmin Moor presents a rugged and rewarding landscape. The ascents of Rough Tor and Brown Willy are must-dos, offering challenging climbs and breathtaking 360-degree vistas. Instagram Explore the ancient Hurlers Stone Circles and other prehistoric sites, immersing yourself in the moor's deep history. Instagram The varied terrain, from open moorland to wooded river valleys like Golitha Falls, provides diverse walking experiences. Instagram Always be prepared for changeable weather, carry navigation tools, and respect the natural environment. Reddit

👻 Those Interested in Folklore and Mystery

Bodmin Moor is a hotspot for those fascinated by local legends and mysteries. The enduring tales of the 'Beast of Bodmin Moor' are a major draw, offering a thrilling element of the unknown. Instagram Explore the atmospheric Hurlers Stone Circles and ponder their ancient, possibly ritualistic, purpose. Instagram The wild, often misty, landscape itself lends an air of enchantment and mystery, perfect for those who love a good story or a touch of the supernatural. TikTok Consider visiting Bodmin Jail for a dose of historical intrigue and ghost stories. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Bodmin Moor's Ancient History

Bodmin Moor is a treasure trove of ancient history, with evidence of human activity stretching back to the Bronze Age. The Hurlers Stone Circles are a prominent example, three large granite circles that stand as silent witnesses to prehistoric rituals. Instagram Nearby, the Cheesewring, a striking natural rock formation, has also been a site of folklore and admiration for centuries. Instagram The moor is also dotted with numerous tin mines and burial cairns, hinting at a rich and complex past. Reddit

Beyond the stone circles, the moor holds secrets of more recent history. Bodmin Jail, a formidable 18th-century prison, offers a chilling glimpse into penal history and is a popular visitor attraction. TikTok The Jamaica Inn, famously associated with Daphne du Maurier's novel, evokes tales of smugglers and highwaymen, adding a layer of romantic intrigue to the wild landscape. TikTok

For those interested in the spiritual and mythical, the moor is steeped in legend. Tales of the 'Beast of Bodmin Moor' persist, adding an element of mystery and folklore to the rugged terrain. Instagram The presence of ancient churches, like St. Catherine's in Temple, further enhances the sense of history and spirituality that permeates Bodmin Moor. Instagram

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures on Bodmin Moor

Bodmin Moor is an adventurer's paradise, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities. The hiking opportunities are exceptional, with well-trodden paths and challenging ascents. Brown Willy and Rough Tor are the highest points, providing rewarding climbs and unparalleled panoramic views across Cornwall. Instagram These hikes are generally considered accessible, though the terrain can be uneven. Reddit

For a more tranquil experience, the Golitha Falls offer a beautiful woodland walk along the River Fowey, with picturesque cascades and a serene atmosphere. Instagram This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll and appreciating the natural beauty. Instagram The Camel Trail, a disused railway line, also passes near Bodmin, offering a flatter, more accessible route for cycling and walking, connecting to the wider Cornish network. Instagram

When planning your outdoor adventures, remember that weather preparedness is key. Reddit The moor can be exposed, and conditions can change rapidly. Sturdy footwear, waterproofs, and layers are essential. Reddit Downloading offline maps or carrying a physical map and compass is highly recommended, as mobile signal can be unreliable. Reddit

The Mystical and Mythical Side of Bodmin Moor

Bodmin Moor is a place where reality often blurs with legend, drawing visitors with its tales of the supernatural and mythical. The most famous of these is the 'Beast of Bodmin Moor', a cryptid said to roam the wild landscape. Reports of a large, panther-like creature have circulated for decades, fueling local lore and attracting curious visitors. Instagram This enduring mystery adds an exciting, albeit spooky, dimension to exploring the moor. TikTok

Beyond the Beast, the moor is rich in folklore and ancient beliefs. The Hurlers Stone Circles are not just historical sites but are often imbued with spiritual significance, believed to have been used for ancient ceremonies or astronomical observations. Instagram The dramatic and often desolate landscape itself can feel otherworldly, especially when shrouded in mist, leading to feelings of enchantment and mystery. TikTok Some believe the moor is home to fae folk or other mythical beings, adding to its magical allure. TikTok

Even the names of places, like Brown Willy, can spark curiosity and imagination. Instagram Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the pervasive sense of mystery and the ancient, untamed nature of Bodmin Moor make it a captivating destination for those drawn to the mystical and the unknown. Instagram

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