
Caradon Hill
Explore the dramatic ruins of a 19th-century copper mining hub on Bodmin Moor, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best chance for clear views

Caradon Hill
Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the dramatic ruins of a 19th-century copper mining hub on Bodmin Moor, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through history.
"This place totally rocks if you like wide open spaces with lots of history and fab views."

Pack for All Weathers 🌦️
Sudden storms are common. Bring waterproofs and layers, even on a sunny day!
Wear Sturdy Footwear 🥾
The terrain is uneven with mining remnants. Good walking boots are a must for safety and comfort.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Views
Summit
Witness breathtaking vistas stretching across Bodmin Moor, Saint Austell Bay, Dartmoor, and even GCHQ Bude.

Mining Heritage Ruins
Various locations on the hill
Explore the evocative ruins of 19th-century copper mines and engine houses, whispering tales of Cornwall's industrial past.

Trig Point Summit
Highest point of Caradon Hill
Reach the trig point for a sense of accomplishment and an even wider perspective of the surrounding Cornish landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
History Beneath Your Feet
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for All Weathers 🌦️
Sudden storms are common. Bring waterproofs and layers, even on a sunny day!
Wear Sturdy Footwear 🥾
The terrain is uneven with mining remnants. Good walking boots are a must for safety and comfort.
Mineral Hunting Fun 💎
Great spot for mineral enthusiasts due to rich copper ore. Bring your tools if you're keen!
Cycle-Friendly Tracks 🚴
Plenty of semi-off-road tracks perfect for biking adventures.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for All Weathers 🌦️
Sudden storms are common. Bring waterproofs and layers, even on a sunny day!
Wear Sturdy Footwear 🥾
The terrain is uneven with mining remnants. Good walking boots are a must for safety and comfort.
Mineral Hunting Fun 💎
Great spot for mineral enthusiasts due to rich copper ore. Bring your tools if you're keen!
Cycle-Friendly Tracks 🚴
Plenty of semi-off-road tracks perfect for biking adventures.
History Buff's Delight 📜
Immerse yourself in the remnants of Cornwall's copper boom.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Caradon Hill for its absolutely stunning, far-reaching views and its rich historical mining landscape. Many highlight the sense of hiking through history and the expansive, wild beauty of the moorland. It's considered a must-visit for those who appreciate open spaces and a tangible connection to Cornwall's industrial past.
"Stunning views from up here. In one spot you can see across Saint Austell bay, Bodmin Moor, Plymouth, Dartmoor and up to GCHQ Bude on the north coast."
Paul Palmer
"Wow. A beautiful place to hike. Long walks through old mines, hills and valleys. It feels like you're hiking through history. Such amazing views."
Kristin Wieland
"Amazing place. Moor stunning. Wheel Tor pub nearby. New owners lovely pub must visit. Views stunning."
Dai Phillips
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Caradon Hill is located near Minions on Bodmin Moor. Access is typically via car, with parking available near the summit or at designated points. Several walking routes lead up the hill, offering different perspectives of the mining landscape.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Caradon Hill are limited. It's best to check local bus routes to nearby villages like Liskeard or St Cleer and then consider a taxi or a longer walk.
Many visitors enjoy circular walks that take in the mining ruins and summit views. The area is also popular for cycling and horse riding.
The charming village of Minions is nearby, offering amenities and access to other parts of Bodmin Moor. The Wheel Tor pub is also a recommended stop for refreshments.
While there are access tracks, driving directly to the very summit is generally not advised or possible for most vehicles. Parking is available at lower elevations, followed by a walk to the top.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Caradon Hill is a natural landscape and part of Bodmin Moor, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit.
Caradon Hill is open to the public at all times, as it is an outdoor natural area. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center directly on Caradon Hill. Information about the mining heritage can be found online or at local heritage sites in the wider Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape area.
Visitors are asked to respect the natural environment and historical sites. Stick to marked paths where possible and avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging ruins.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on Caradon Hill, but they should be kept under control, especially around livestock like sheep and lambs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the fascinating ruins of old copper mines, enjoy stunning panoramic views from the summit, go for hikes or bike rides, and even try mineral hunting.
A short visit to the summit and nearby ruins can take 1-2 hours. For longer walks or cycling, you could easily spend half a day or more exploring the area.
Yes, Caradon Hill is great for families. Kids can enjoy exploring the open spaces, learning about history, and spotting wildlife. Ensure they have appropriate footwear and are supervised.
You might see sheep and lambs grazing on the moorland. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other moorland wildlife.
There are no facilities directly on Caradon Hill. You'll need to visit nearby villages like Minions or Liskeard for toilets, cafes, and pubs.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the summit are spectacular, especially at sunrise or sunset. The mining ruins also offer unique, atmospheric shots.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly dramatic.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The summit trig point offers the most expansive views. The areas around the engine houses and mine shafts also provide compelling photographic subjects.
Yes, the mining ruins are a key feature and offer fantastic photographic opportunities, showcasing the area's industrial history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Ensure everyone wears sturdy shoes, as the ground can be uneven and sometimes boggy. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on the hill. Keep a close eye on children, especially near any remaining mine shafts or steep drops. The chance to see sheep and lambs can also be a big hit!
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Recommendations for hikers: Consider a circular route that incorporates the summit trig point and explores some of the key mining ruins. The area is also popular for dog walking, so bring your canine companion along, ensuring they are kept under control. Be prepared for changeable weather, and always carry water and snacks.
🚴 Cyclists
Cycling tips: Stick to the established tracks to avoid damaging the moorland and for a smoother ride. Be aware of other users, including walkers and horse riders. The area is particularly enjoyable on a dry day, but can become challenging when wet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Copper Boom and Mining Heritage
Visitors can wander amongst the stone structures, imagining the steam engines that once powered the mines and the tramways that transported the ore. The ground itself can sparkle with minerals, a testament to the rich deposits that fueled the boom. It's a place where history is not just read about but felt and seen, reclaimed by the wild beauty of the moorland.
When exploring the mining heritage, it's important to do so safely. Stick to designated paths where possible, and be aware of uneven ground and potential hazards around the old mine workings. The ruins are fragile, so admire them respectfully without climbing on them or disturbing the stonework.
Navigating the Moorland and Weather
Essential gear includes sturdy, waterproof walking boots to handle the often boggy and uneven terrain, as well as waterproof and windproof outer layers. Even on a seemingly clear day, carrying extra layers is advisable. The open nature of the moor means there's little shelter, so dressing appropriately is key to a comfortable and safe experience.
Beyond the weather, the moorland offers vast open spaces and a sense of wildness. While this is part of its charm, it also means navigation can be challenging if visibility is poor. Carrying a map and compass, or using a reliable GPS device, is recommended, especially if venturing off the most obvious paths.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit