Camel Trail
An 18-mile traffic-free trail along the River Camel, perfect for cycling, walking, and wildlife spotting in Cornwall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
Camel Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18-mile traffic-free trail along the River Camel, perfect for cycling, walking, and wildlife spotting in Cornwall.
"A must-do in Cornwall for cycling and walking with stunning views and wildlife!"
🎯 Book Bike Hire Ahead
Secure your bikes, trailers, or child seats in advance, especially during summer. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even if cycling, comfortable footwear is key. The trail is mostly flat, but you'll want to be prepared. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wadebridge to Padstow
Camel Trail
A scenic 5.5-mile stretch, perfect for families and casual cyclists. Enjoy coastal views and charming villages.
Bodmin Moor Views
Camel Trail (Eastern Section)
Experience the rugged beauty of Bodmin Moor on the less-trafficked eastern section of the trail.
Wildlife Spotting
Camel Estuary
Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and marine creatures along the estuary. A haven for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bike Hire & Trail Access
+1Best Time to Cycle or Walk
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Bike Hire Ahead
Secure your bikes, trailers, or child seats in advance, especially during summer.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even if cycling, comfortable footwear is key. The trail is mostly flat, but you'll want to be prepared. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be spotty. Have offline maps ready for navigation along the Camel Trail. :iphone:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
While there are stops, carrying your own refreshments is convenient, especially on longer rides. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Bike Hire Ahead
Secure your bikes, trailers, or child seats in advance, especially during summer.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even if cycling, comfortable footwear is key. The trail is mostly flat, but you'll want to be prepared. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be spotty. Have offline maps ready for navigation along the Camel Trail. :iphone:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
While there are stops, carrying your own refreshments is convenient, especially on longer rides. :water_wave:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Options
Many hire shops offer dog trailers, making it a great outing for your furry friends too! :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Camel Trail's accessibility, natural beauty, and family-friendly atmosphere. The traffic-free, flat path is a major draw for cyclists and walkers alike, offering stunning estuary views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Some find parking challenging during peak times, and bike hire can be busy.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Camel Trail is accessible from several points, with popular starting locations including Padstow, Wadebridge, and Bodmin. Wadebridge offers ample parking and numerous bike hire shops, making it a convenient hub.
Parking is available at designated car parks in Padstow, Wadebridge, and Bodmin. Wadebridge has several car parks close to the trail and bike hire facilities.
Yes, the Camel Trail is accessible via public transport. Train services run to Bodmin Parkway and Wadebridge stations, providing good access to different sections of the trail.
Wadebridge is often recommended as a great starting point due to its central location, plentiful bike hire options, and parking facilities.
Absolutely! The Camel Trail connects several towns, including Padstow, Wadebridge, and Bodmin. Each offers unique perspectives and amenities, allowing you to tailor your journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Camel Trail itself is free to access for walking and cycling. You only need to pay for bike hire if you choose to rent a bicycle.
Bike hire costs vary, but expect to pay around £20 for a full day's hire for a standard adult bike. Child seats and trailers may incur additional charges.
There are no entrance fees for the Camel Trail. It's a public right of way, making it an accessible and affordable outdoor activity for everyone.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own bicycle to the Camel Trail. This is a great option if you have your own bike and want to save on hire costs.
Bike hire shops typically operate during daylight hours, often from around 9 AM to 5 PM or later during peak season. It's best to check with individual hire companies for their specific hours.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Camel Trail is excellent for walking, offering a mostly flat and traffic-free surface. It's ideal for leisurely strolls, with beautiful estuary views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Absolutely! The flat, traffic-free nature of the Camel Trail makes it perfect for families with young children. Many hire shops offer child seats and trailers.
The Camel Trail is approximately 18 miles (29 km) long, stretching from Wenfordbridge to Padstow. You can choose to cycle or walk any section of it.
The Camel Estuary is a haven for wildlife. You can spot various bird species, seals, and other marine life, especially during low tide.
Yes, there are facilities available at key points like Padstow and Wadebridge, including public toilets and cafes. Some smaller villages along the route may also have amenities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Padstow is renowned for its culinary scene, offering everything from fish and chips to Michelin-starred restaurants. Wadebridge also has a good selection of cafes and pubs.
Yes, there are numerous scenic spots along the Camel Trail perfect for a picnic. You can find benches or simply stop by the estuary to enjoy your packed lunch.
You'll find cafes and pubs in Wadebridge and Padstow. Smaller villages might have limited options, so it's wise to carry some snacks and water.
Padstow is an excellent choice for lunch, offering a wide array of dining options from casual eateries to fine dining. It's a popular destination at the end of the trail.
Many cafes and pubs in Padstow and Wadebridge are dog-friendly, especially those with outdoor seating. It's always a good idea to check in advance if you're bringing your dog.
📸 📸 Photography
The Camel Trail offers stunning photography opportunities, from the serene estuary and diverse birdlife to charming coastal villages like Padstow. The changing light throughout the day provides beautiful scenes.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can create magical shots of the estuary.
Yes, the Camel Estuary is a prime location for wildlife photography. Bring a telephoto lens if you want to capture birds and other animals from a distance.
Look for elevated spots along the estuary for panoramic views. The sections near Wadebridge and Padstow offer picturesque scenes of the river and surrounding countryside.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can be great for expansive estuary shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many bike hire shops in Wadebridge and Padstow offer child seats, trailers, and even tag-along bikes, ensuring everyone can participate. +1 The 5.5-mile stretch from Wadebridge to Padstow is a popular choice for families, offering beautiful views without being overly strenuous. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider stopping at one of the many scenic spots for a picnic. The chance to see wildlife along the estuary also adds an educational and exciting element for kids. 🐶 Dog Owners
Many bike hire companies offer dog trailers, allowing your canine companion to join you even on longer cycling trips. Remember to keep your dog on a lead where necessary, especially in busier areas or near wildlife. There are plenty of spots to stop for a rest and a drink, and many pubs and cafes in Padstow and Wadebridge welcome well-behaved dogs. 🏃♀️ Trail Runners
Runners often enjoy the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer people on the trail. The diverse scenery, from estuary views to woodland paths, keeps the run engaging. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Camel Trail: A Comprehensive Guide
Many visitors choose to hire bikes from companies located in Wadebridge or Padstow, which offer a range of options from standard bikes to tandems, electric bikes, child seats, and even dog trailers. The journey offers diverse scenery, from the wilder landscapes near Bodmin Moor to the picturesque estuary views as you approach Padstow. +1When planning your cycling trip, consider the camel bike trail experience. The most popular section is often the 5.5 miles between Wadebridge and Padstow, known for its gentle gradient and stunning waterside vistas.
For those seeking a more challenging or secluded ride, the eastern section towards Bodmin Moor offers a different, more rugged charm. Remember to book your bike hire in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. The camel cycle trail is a fantastic way to explore Cornwall's natural beauty at your own pace. Key considerations for cycling:
* Bike Hire: Book in advance from reputable local businesses.
* Trail Surface: Mostly compacted gravel, smooth and ideal for all bike types.
* Navigation: While straightforward, having a map or GPS is helpful.
* Pace Yourself: It's a leisure trail, so enjoy the journey and stop at points of interest.
Walking the Camel Trail: Nature and Serenity
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species, especially during migration seasons. Walking the walking camel trail allows for a more intimate experience with the surroundings. You can take your time to appreciate the flora and fauna, stop for photos, or simply relax by the water. Popular walking routes include the section from Wadebridge to Padstow, which offers lovely estuary views and leads to the charming fishing port.
Alternatively, exploring the quieter sections towards Bodmin Moor provides a sense of wilder beauty. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water and snacks, as facilities can be spaced out along the trail. Tips for walkers:
* Footwear: Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential.
* Wildlife: Bring binoculars for better bird and seal spotting.
* Tides: Check tide times if you plan to walk near the estuary's edge.
* Pace: Allow ample time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit