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Skyline of Bodmin with the Gilbert Monument in the background
Lisamarie Lamb

Lisamarie Lamb

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24 min readUpdated 18 May 20260 Comments
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Tucked away in the middle of Cornwall, Bodmin is one of those places loads of people just breeze past on their way to Padstow or Newquay, and then later realise they’ve totally missed a gem. It’s not flashy or trying to be trendy, but that’s kind of the point. It’s the sort of place that quietly gets under your skin – in the best way – the longer you stick around.

Once the county town of Cornwall, Bodmin is a proper mix of ancient history, countryside adventures, local legends (yes, we’re talking about the Beast of Bodmin), and modern regeneration. You’ve got the windswept beauty of Bodmin Moor, the eerie intrigue of Bodmin Jail, and then there are independent cafés, old-school pubs, and friendly faces that make you feel welcome whether you’re here for a weekend or a whole summer.

This guide is for anyone thinking of visiting – or maybe even staying. We’ll take you through what to see and do, where to eat, drink and stay, and what makes Bodmin such a brilliant place to explore.

Bodmin images

Bodmin Jail - the most haunted place in Cornwall?
Lanhydrock: a late Victorian country house with garden and parkland
Skyline of Bodmin with the Gilbert Monument in the background
Lanhydrock,House and the formal gardens

Things to See and Do in Bodmin

Historical Attractions

If you’re into old stories, mysterious legends, and places that have really lived a life or two, Bodmin is one spot you won’t want to skip. Right in the middle of Cornwall, this historic county town has seen it all – monks, rebellions, prisons, and plenty in between, and it’s got that proper layered feel, like the kind of place where every building’s got a secret to tell. Whether you’re swinging by from Newquay or taking a little scenic detour from Padstow, here are five brilliant historical attractions in Bodmin that are absolutely worth a look.

Bodmin Jail: Let’s kick things off with the creepiest spot in town – Bodmin Jail. Built back in the 18th century, this huge granite fortress has seen more than its fair share of grim goings-on, including over 50 public hangings, and if that’s not chilling enough, there are even tales of the mysterious Beast of Bodmin lurking in its shadow.1 These days though, it’s all a bit more fun than frightening. You can take a spooky guided tour, join in on a dramatic murder mystery, or – if you’re feeling especially brave – book a night in one of their luxury hotel rooms. Handy tip: there’s a brand-new car park right next door, so getting there’s a breeze.

St Petroc’s Church: Wandering through Bodmin town, you can’t really miss St Petroc’s Church, and once you see it, you’ll get why it stands out. It’s not just big… it’s actually the largest parish church in all of Cornwall, and it’s been quietly holding its ground for over 500 years. The churchyard’s got that peaceful, tucked-away feeling that makes you want to slow down for a minute, maybe take a wander and soak up a bit of the history of Bodmin while you’re at it.2

Lanhydrock House: Ever wondered how the other half lived back in the day? Well, a trip to Lanhydrock will give you a pretty good idea. This grand old Victorian country house – looked after by the National Trust – is packed with original furniture, endless rooms to explore, and little details that really bring the 19th century to life.3 You’ll see how the wealthy family lived… and yes, how their staff lived too, which is just as fascinating in its own way. Once you’ve had your fill of fancy interiors and historic gossip, you can head outside and wander through the formal gardens or hit the woodland trails for a proper leg-stretch. Whether you’re a history buff or just nosy (in the best way), it’s a brilliant day out.

Bodmin Railway: Love a bit of old-school charm? Then hop on board the Bodmin Railway, because this one’s a proper throwback. It’s a beautifully restored steam railway that runs between Bodmin Parkway and Boscarne Junction, and it gives you that golden-age-of-travel feeling, with countryside views and the gentle chug-chug of the engine all the way.4 It’s not just for train enthusiasts either – it’s one of those relaxed, feel-good rides that’s perfect for all ages. Plus, dogs are totally welcome, so your four-legged mate can tag along too. It’s one of the loveliest ways to see a bit of the Cornish landscape without even having to lace up your walking boots.

Bodmin Beacon: If you’re in Bodmin and feel like getting out for a bit, the Beacon is a good place to go, and the best part is that it’s not a long walk or anything intense, so most people will be able to enjoy it… and enjoy it they will because the views are lovely once you’re up there. You can see for miles on a clear day, and it’s one of those spots where you don’t have to do much – just walk, take it in, and maybe grab a photo if you’re that way inclined. There’s a big stone monument at the top, put there for a local military hero, Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert, and even if you’re not big on history, it adds something to the place. Plus, the area around it is part of a nature reserve, so it’s peaceful and open – good for a quiet wander if the town centre’s feeling a bit much.

The town is bursting with stories, legends, and some properly fascinating historical sites – you just have to know where to look. Oh, and keep your eyes peeled… some say the Beast of Bodmin still roams the moor. Spooky stuff!

Family Activities

Looking for something a little different to keep the whole crew entertained in Bodmin? This lovely spot in Cornwall has loads going on beyond the usual steam trains and woodland walks. If you’re after something fresh – with a bit of Cornish character thrown in – here are four fun family activities that’ll do the trick.

Discover the Camel Trail: Got energetic kids? You’re in luck. The Camel Trail is a flat, traffic-free path perfect for cycling or walking, and it kicks off right here in Bodmin, winding all the way to Padstow. You can hire bikes in town, pack some snacks, and enjoy a gentle ride through peaceful woodland, along rivers, and past plenty of picnic-perfect spots.5 It’s active, easy, and ideal for burning off some energy, without the dreaded “Are we there yet?”

Bodmin Town Museum: Tucked right in the heart of Bodmin town, the Bodmin Town Museum is a lovely little find, and best of all, it’s free. It’s small but packed with treasures, from wartime memorabilia to vintage toys and quirky exhibits all about the rich history of Bodmin.6 It’s a great rainy-day option or a quick pitstop if you’re already exploring the high street.

Priory Park Playground: Sometimes you don’t need anything fancy – just a good old-fashioned runaround. Priory Park, a short stroll from the centre of town, has a cracking playground, big green spaces, and even tennis courts. There’s loads of room for scooters, footballs, and chasing each other around, plus it’s got toilets and a handy car park, which always earns a gold star from parents.

Head to the Hurlers on Bodmin Moor: Fancy mixing a bit of myth with your outdoor adventure? Take a short drive out to The Hurlers, an ancient stone circle up on Bodmin Moor. The legend goes that a group of men were turned to stone for playing games on a Sunday… yikes! Kids can roam the open landscape while adults take in the mystery and beauty of this prehistoric site.7 It’s history, fresh air, and imagination all rolled into one.

Outdoor Activities

If the sun’s out – or at least if it’s not absolutely chucking it down – it’s the perfect excuse to get outside and explore the bits of Bodmin that make it such a joy to wander. Tucked right in the middle of Cornwall, it’s got everything from windswept moorland to peaceful trails, and a few hidden gems you might not expect. Here are a few favourites for stretching your legs and soaking up that good old Cornish air.

Rough Tor: Want to get up high and take in some proper views? Head up to Rough Tor, one of the highest points on Bodmin Moor. It’s not the easiest climb, but it’s definitely doable, even with the kids, and once you’re at the top, the views across the south west are absolutely worth the effort. You might even spot the sea on a clear day! Plus, the landscape is dotted with prehistoric remains, so you’re literally walking through history as you go.

The Camel Trail: If you’re after something a bit gentler, the The Camel Trail trail is a lovely, lesser-known option. It starts on the edge of Bodmin and follows an old railway line through quiet woodland and along the river. It’s flat, shady, and perfect for walking or cycling – and connects Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow (with a turning off to Wenford).8 Great for a chilled-out afternoon when you just want some fresh air and headspace.

Lanhydrock Estate: You’ve probably heard of Lanhydrock for its grand old house, but the real outdoor treat is the estate itself. There are miles of well-marked walking and cycling trails through ancient woods and wide open spaces. It’s all managed by the National Trust, so expect good paths, proper signage, and yes, there’s a café too if you need a tea and cake situation after your stroll. It’s peaceful, pretty, and easy to tailor to whatever kind of walk you’re in the mood for.

Eat and Drink

If you’re exploring Bodmin, don’t do it on an empty stomach (and in fact, there’s really no need to)! Whether you’re rambling across Bodmin Moor, pottering around Bodmin town, or just passing through Cornwall on your way to somewhere else, you’ll find loads of brilliant spots to eat, drink, and grab a little something local.

Cafés and Coffee Houses

Woods Cafe: If your idea of a great café includes proper coffee, big slices of cake, and a setting that feels like something out of a fairytale, head straight to Woods Café in Cardinham Woods. It’s tucked away amongst the trees, and everything on the menu is comforting and generous, from the homemade soups to the legendary hot chocolate.9 It’s a bit of a hidden treasure and perfect after a woodland stroll.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Rooms: Fancy something right in the middle of town? Mad Hatter’s Tea Rooms, just off Honey Street, is a firm favourite, especially if you’ve got kids (or just really love cake). You can get giant sandwiches, colourful baked goods, and loads of quirky little touches that make it feel fun and welcoming.10

Moor Cafe: If you’re visiting Bodmin Jail and need to refuel, the Moor Café is ideal. It’s laid-back and super family-friendly, with good coffee (locally roasted, of course), sweet treats, and plenty of space to take a breather. It’s great for a quick bite before diving back into the spooky side of Bodmin’s history!

Pubs

Lanivet Inn: When it comes to a proper Cornish pub, you’re spoilt for choice around Bodmin and one that locals often rave about is the Lanivet Inn, just outside of town. It’s cosy, welcoming, and all about good food made with local ingredients like fresh Cornish fish, local meats, and pub classics done well.11

Jamaica Inn: Fancy something with a bit of history (and a story or two)? Head out to Bodmin Moor and visit the famous Jamaica Inn. Yes, that one – made famous by Daphne du Maurier’s novel. It’s full of character, great for a Sunday roast, and the moorland views are just the cherry on.12

Borough Arms: If you’re cycling along the Camel Trail, pop into the Borough Arms. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly spot with a big beer garden and a menu full of comforting pub grub.13 Plus, it’s perfectly placed for a mid-ride pit stop.

Breweries and Distilleries

Harbour Bewing Co: If beer’s your thing, you’ll definitely want to check out Harbour Brewing Co., based right in Bodmin. They do a fantastic range of craft beers, from hoppy IPAs to crisp lagers, and you’ll spot their name on taps and bottles all over Cornwall. It’s well worth trying something local while you’re here.

Elemental Distilling Co: For something a bit stronger, there’s Elemental Distilling Co., who use fresh spring water from Bodmin Moor to make their award-winning gin. They’re all about small batches, local botanicals, and quality you can taste.14 Great if you’re after a souvenir that’s not fudge or fridge magnets.

Farm Shops

St Kew Farm Shop & Cafe: Want to take a bit of Cornwall home with you? Stop by St Kew Farm Shop & Café, not far from Bodmin, for everything from artisan cheese and homemade chutneys to fresh local produce. Their café does a cracking lunch too, if you’re peckish.15

Stephen Gelly Organic Farm: For something more meat-focused, Stephen Gelly Organic Farm offers organic beef, lamb, and chicken just outside the town. It’s all sustainably raised and packed with flavour – it’s ideal if you’re self-catering or planning a barbecue.16

Places to Stay in Bodmin

If you’re planning a trip to Bodmin, good news – you’ve got loads of great places to stay. Whether you fancy something a bit quirky and luxurious, a cosy B&B with a warm welcome, or a peaceful spot tucked away in the Cornish countryside, this historic county town in the middle of Cornwall has something to suit your tastes (and your budget).

Expedia.com:
Expedia makes it easy to find a cosy base in Bodmin, from boutique hotels and traditional inns to countryside B&Bs near Bodmin Moor. Options range from budget rooms to historic coaching inns, many with a local, welcoming feel. With filters for price, families, pets, and accessibility, it’s simple to find the right stay from around £50 per night. Check availability and best prices.

Best Value Hotels:
For a great mix of comfort, location, and price, explore Bodmin’s top-rated mid-range hotels—often the go-to choice for visitors. Check availability and best prices.

Boutique & Character Stays:
Uncover unique places to stay in Bodmin, from historic inns to cosy countryside retreats brimming with Cornish charm. Check availability and best prices.

Dog-Friendly Places to Stay:
Bringing your four-legged friend? Many Bodmin properties welcome dogs and offer easy access to open countryside and scenic walking routes. Check availability and best prices.

Self-Catering & Cottages:
Ideal for longer stays or extra flexibility, Bodmin’s self-catering options include charming cottages, apartments, and rural lodges. Check availability and best prices.

Bodmin Jail:
Here’s something a little unexpected… The Bodmin Jail Hotel is exactly what it sounds like – a luxury hotel inside a former 19th century prison, and it’s smart, stylish, and a total conversation-starter, especially if you fancy telling your mates you spent the night in jail (on purpose). The rooms were once actual cells (don’t worry, they’re far more comfortable now), and you’re just a short walk from the Camel Trail and the dramatic ruins of Bodmin Jail itself. A definite one for your travel story collection! Check availability and best prices.

Holiday Inn Express:
If you like things easy and reliable, the Holiday Inn Express near Victoria Junction ticks all the boxes. Free breakfast? Yes. Car park? Absolutely. Close to both Bodmin town and the A30 for exploring more of Cornwall? You bet. Check availability and best prices.

Mennabroom Farm:
If you’re craving a bit of peace and quiet, Mennabroom Farm is a real treat. It’s tucked away on the edge of Bodmin Moor, so you’ll wake up to birdsong, not traffic – and probably won’t hear much more than the kettle bubbling and the odd sheep. It’s ideal for walkers, nature lovers, or anyone who just wants to slow things down for a few days. Check availability and best prices.

Dairy Cottage:
Want your own space? Dairy Cottage could be just the thing. It’s a cosy converted barn just outside Bodmin, and it’s got all the modern bits you need for a comfy stay – perfect for families or couples who like to come and go as they please. Tucked away in the Cornish countryside, it gives you that lovely ‘away from it all’ feeling, but you’re still close enough to pop into town when you need to. Check availability and best prices

History of Bodmin

Ancient Beginnings

Way before the Romans showed up, people were already living in the Bodmin area. In fact, archaeologists have found signs of Neolithic life out on Bodmin Moor, so we’re talking thousands of years of history here. It’s easy to see why – there’s something about the landscape that clearly drew people in, even way back then.

Medieval Growth

Skip forward a few centuries, and Bodmin had become a pretty important place. By the time the Domesday Book was written in 1086, it was the only town in Cornwall to get a mention, which says a lot about its status back then (Bodmin Town Council, 2025). A big part of that came from the monastery founded by St Petroc in the 6th century. He’s kind of a big deal locally, and the town even takes its name from the Cornish “Bod-meneghy,” meaning “dwelling of monks”.17 Makes sense when you think about it.

Rebellions and Resistance

If you thought Bodmin was always quiet and sleepy, think again. It’s actually been at the centre of some major moments in Cornish history. Back in 1497, the Cornish Rebellion kicked off here, with thousands of people marching to London to protest taxes. It ended in defeat at Blackheath, but it showed just how strong the local spirit was. Later that same year, Perkin Warbeck showed up and was declared king in Bodmin, though that didn’t exactly work out either.18 Still, it was a bold time for the town.

Industrial Advancements

The 19th century brought some big changes. For one, Bodmin Jail opened in 1779, and it was a pretty big deal in terms of prison reform. It introduced proper cells and better living conditions, which was unusual for the time. Then, in the 1830s, the railway arrived and everything shifted. Suddenly, Bodmin was connected to the rest of Cornwall, and trade and travel got a serious boost. It was a turning point, for sure.

Modern Transformations

These days, Bodmin has managed to strike a really nice balance between old and new. That old jail is now a fancy hotel and museum, complete with guided tours and even a cocktail bar. A little different from the old days. And because Bodmin is right in the centre of Cornwall, it’s a great base for exploring both coasts. All in all, it’s a town that’s always moved with the times, but never lost its sense of history.

Modern Developments

Bodmin isn’t just about ancient sites and historical tales – it’s also a town that’s changing, growing, and looking to the future. There’s a real focus these days on building a more sustainable, connected, and creative community, and if you spend a bit of time here, you’ll start to notice it.

Housing and Infrastructure

Like a lot of places in Cornwall, there’s a real need for more affordable housing, and Bodmin is stepping up. Plans are in place for 45 new homes, designed to offer quality, comfortable living spaces for local people. At the same time, the Bodmin Town Council has made it clear that housing on its own isn’t enough. They’re pushing for better infrastructure too – things like roads, schools, and healthcare – so that as the town grows, it stays liveable and balanced.19

Green Spaces and Recreation

It’s not all about bricks and mortar though; community spaces are getting some love too. A brand-new play park has popped up at Moor View, with inclusive equipment and eco-friendly design – perfect for families looking for safe, accessible fun. And if you’ve got kids (or just love a bit of adrenaline), the new Pendowr Pump Track is already a hit. It’s designed for bikes and scooters and gives everyone a fun, active way to enjoy the outdoors.

Transportation and Connectivity

Getting around is also set to get easier. The Mid Cornwall Metro project is aiming to seriously upgrade rail services across the region, including improved links between Newquay and Falmouth, which means better connections for people living in Bodmin, whether they’re commuting or just heading out to explore more of Cornwall.20

Cultural Initiatives

And finally, one of the most exciting things about modern Bodmin is how it’s embracing creativity and culture. Community projects like Roots and Routes are all about sharing local stories through art, performance, and public events. It’s a lovely way to bring people together, celebrate the town’s diverse heritage, and keep the spirit of Bodmin alive while moving forward.

Key Buildings in Bodmin

We all know about Bodmin Jail and St Petroc’s Church, but what about the other buildings dotted around Bodmin town that tell quieter stories? If you love exploring places that have a bit of personality (and history), here are a few less-shouted-about gems that are absolutely worth a look.

  • The Guildhall: Right in the centre of town is the Guildhall, a grand old building that’s been standing since the 16th century. It’s got that charming Cornish character – think granite stonework, a touch of Tudor flair, and a whole lot of civic pride. It’s where local decisions were once made, long before Cornwall Council took over the serious stuff. It’s now a listed building and one of those places you might walk past without realising how much history is packed inside.
  • The Old Library: One of the most welcoming buildings in Bodmin has to be the Old Library. Funded by the legendary philanthropist John Passmore Edwards, it opened in the 1890s and still feels like a place made for the community. These days, it’s not just about books – it’s a lively hub for events, music, and art, and there’s even a little café if you fancy a cuppa.21
  • The Turret Clock: You might spot Bodmin’s Turret Clock near the centre of town. It was added in the Victorian era and it’s got serious character. It’s not flashy, but it’s one of those old features that gives Bodmin its charm. Just imagine all the people who’ve looked up at it over the decades, waiting for their train or timing a trip to the market.
  • St Lawrence’s Hospital: Tucked a little out of the way is the site of the old St Lawrence’s Hospital, one of the first mental health institutions in Cornwall. Built in the early 1800s, it was once a huge complex with striking architecture by John Foulston. Though it’s now closed, parts of the building still stand, and it remains an important piece of Bodmin’s social history.
  • The Market House: In the 1800s, Bodmin Market House was buzzing. This was the place to buy and sell just about everything, from fresh veg to wool. These days, it’s not used in quite the same way, but it still stands as a proud reminder of Bodmin’s past as a bustling market hub.
  • The Obelisk on Bodmin Beacon: Lastly, take a walk up to the top of Bodmin Beacon and you’ll find a towering obelisk dedicated to General Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert. It was built in the 1850s and, aside from the stunning views across Bodmin Moor, it’s one of those places that connects the town to wider national history.

Famous People from Bodmin

Bodmin might be a peaceful Cornish town today, but it’s punched well above its weight when it comes to fascinating characters. From rebels to rockstars, scientists to soldiers, plenty of folks with roots in Bodmin have made a real impact, locally and beyond. Here’s a look at some of the people you might not realise have a connection to this historic county town.

  • Thomas Flamank: We’ll start with a bit of drama… Thomas Flamank was a lawyer from Bodmin who decided he’d had quite enough of King Henry VII’s taxes, so in 1497, he teamed up with Michael An Gof to lead the Cornish Rebellion, marching thousands of protestors all the way to London. It didn’t end well for him, but it definitely put Bodmin on the map.22
  • Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert: If you’ve wandered up to Bodmin Beacon, you’ll have seen the tall obelisk dedicated to Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert. Born in Bodmin in 1785, he made his name as a high-ranking British Army officer in India, and the monument built in his honour has one of the best views over Bodmin Moor – well worth the walk.23
  • Al Hodge: Not every famous local wore a uniform or led a rebellion. Al Hodge, a talented guitarist and singer-songwriter from Bodmin, co-wrote “Rock ‘n’ Roll Mercenaries,” which was recorded by Meat Loaf and John Parr. His legacy lives on through the annual Alstock festival in town – a must for local music lovers.24
  • William Robert Hicks: A bit of a local legend, William Robert Hicks was born in Bodmin in 1808. He was known for being a gifted storyteller and humourist, but he also made a serious difference as the superintendent of Cornwall’s mental health asylum. He brought compassion to a system that sorely needed it.25
  • Peter D. Mitchell: You might not expect a Nobel Prize-winning biochemist to turn up in a small town like Bodmin, but Peter D. Mitchell did just that. Though he wasn’t born here, he lived in nearby Glynn and carried out some of his most important research locally. He won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1978 – pretty big stuff for Bodmin!26
  • Tony ‘Doc’ Shiels: And finally, we’ve got Tony ‘Doc’ Shiels, an artist, magician, and all-around eccentric. Though he wasn’t born in Bodmin, he spent time here and became well-known across Cornwall for his wild hoaxes and theatrical performances. He even got involved in the whole Beast of Bodmin mystery… because of course he did27.

Education in Bodmin

If you’ve got kids – or you’re thinking about relocating – Bodmin is a really decent place when it comes to schools. It’s got a good mix, which makes life a lot easier for families, and whether you’ve got little ones just starting out or teens heading towards exams, there are solid options across the board.

You’ve got several well-regarded primaries, and for older students, there’s Bodmin College, which is the main secondary school and sixth form in town; it offers a huge range of subjects, vocational courses, and even a dedicated creative arts programme, which is great for students looking to go on to uni or straight into work.28

For younger children, schools like St Petroc’s Church of England Primary provide a nurturing start in a setting that ties in nicely with the local history of Bodmin.29 And for those with specialist needs, Doubletrees School supports students from across Cornwall, offering tailored education in a supportive environment.30

With strong local options and connections to further education across the South West, Bodmin’s educational offering continues to grow with its community.

Demographics of Bodmin

Bodmin is home to just under 17,000 people, and it’s steadily growing as more families and professionals settle in this central part of Cornwall.31 The town has a fairly even split between age groups, with a healthy mix of younger families, working-age residents, and retirees. It’s still a predominantly White British area, but with increasing diversity over the past few year.32 As a historic county town, Bodmin is evolving, welcoming new faces while holding onto its strong local identity.

Crime in Bodmin

Like many towns in Cornwall, Bodmin has seen some ups and downs when it comes to crime. In recent years, the most common issues have been anti-social behaviour and violence-related offence.33 It’s something the community’s aware of, and local initiatives like Safer Bodmin are working to tackle those concerns, especially around repeat offenders and drug-related crime.

Transport in Bodmin

Getting around Bodmin is pretty straightforward, whether you’re commuting, exploring, or just popping into town.​

  • By Train: Bodmin Parkway railway station is the town’s main rail link, situated about 3.5 miles southeast of the town centre. It sits on the Cornish Main Line, offering regular services to destinations like Plymouth and Penzance. From the station, you can catch a bus into town or hop on the heritage Bodmin & Wenford Railway for a nostalgic steam train experience.
  • By Bus: Bodmin is well-served by local buses, making it easy to get around without a car. Services like the 11 and 96 connect Bodmin to nearby towns such as Padstow, Wadebridge, and Camelford. Thanks to a Cornwall-wide initiative, bus fares have been reduced to encourage public transport use, with single tickets often costing just £2.34
  • By Car: If you’re driving, Bodmin is conveniently located just off the A30, so you’ve got easy access to the rest of Cornwall and beyond. And since parking is available in several town centre car parks, it’s simple to park up and explore on foot.​

Is Bodmin Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Bodmin is one of those places that might not shout about itself, but once you’re here, you get it. It’s packed with historical sites, close to both coastlines, and surrounded by the raw beauty of Bodmin Moor. Whether you’re into old buildings, woodland walks, or just fancy a quieter base that’s still close to hotspots like Fowey, Truro, and even Land’s End, Bodmin delivers. The town has its quirks, its stories, and it’s only getting more exciting with new community spaces and cultural events popping up. It’s not flashy, but it’s real, and that’s exactly what makes it worth your time.

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  25. Wikipedia (2025) William Robert Hicks. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Robert_Hicks Wikipedia[]
  26. Wikipedia (2025) Peter D. Mitchell. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_D._Mitchell Wikipedia[]
  27. The Times (2024) Tony Shiels obituary: Artist and self-styled ‘wizard’. Available at: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/tony-shiels-obituary-artist-and-self-styled-wizard-0q7lq6jc2 The Times[]
  28. Bodmin College (2025) About Us. Available at: https://www.bodmincollege.co.uk/ Bodmin College[]
  29. St Petroc’s Primary (2025) Our School. Available at: https://www.stpetrocs.com/ St. Petrocs[]
  30. Cornwall Council (2025) Special Educational Needs. Available at: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk Cornwall Council[]
  31. CityPopulation (2025) Bodmin (Parish, Cornwall, United Kingdom). Available at: https://www.citypopulation.de/en/uk/southwestengland/cornwall/E63006889__bodmin/ City Population[]
  32. Safer Cornwall (2022) Bodmin Town Profile 2021. Available at: https://saferwww.cornwall.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2022/11/Bodmin-Town-Profile-2021.pdf Safer Cornwall[]
  33. CrimeRate (2024) Crime and Safety in Bodmin. Available at: https://crimerate.co.uk/cornwall/bodmin Crimerate.co.uk[]
  34. The Guardian (2022) Cornwall pilot scheme cuts bus fares to encourage public transport use. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/apr/11/cornwall-pilot-scheme-cuts-bus-fares-public-transport The Guardian[]

Frequently Asked Questions

Bodmin is famous for its historic Bodmin Jail, Bodmin Moor’s wild landscapes, and the Camel Trail for walking and cycling. The town also has rich Cornish history and legends, making it a hub for exploring Cornwall’s heritage and scenery.

If someone’s “gone Bodmin,” it basically means they’ve gone a bit mad. It’s old slang from when the town had a psychiatric hospital, and the phrase just kind of stuck. Not the most flattering legacy, but it’s definitely part of local folklore!

Yes, Bodmin has a town centre with shops, cafés, a library, pubs, and a mix of historic and modern buildings. It’s the town’s hub for shopping, services, and community events.

Bodmin Jail held many notorious criminals, including Michael Barrett, the last person publicly executed in England in 1868. Other inmates included smugglers, thieves, and fraudsters like Frank Digby Hardy, adding to the jail’s dramatic history

Bodmin is on the edge of Bodmin Moor, just a short drive from its rugged hills and open countryside. The town is an ideal base for exploring the moor and nearby attractions.

The Beast of Bodmin Moor is a legendary big cat in Cornwall. People report sightings, but there’s no scientific proof—its mystery remains a popular local legend.

Bodmin is accessible by road via the A30 and A38, with bus services connecting it to nearby towns. The nearest train station is Bodmin Parkway, which links to Cornwall and beyond.

Some of the best hiking trails near Bodmin include Bodmin Moor routes, Cardinham Woods trails, and the Camel Trail for easy walking or cycling. These paths offer scenic views, historic sites, and Cornish countryside experiences.

Top attractions in Bodmin include Bodmin Jail, Bodmin Moor, Cardinham Woods, Lanhydrock House and Gardens, and the Camel Trail. The town also offers historic churches, local museums, and scenic Cornish countryside for visitors to explore.

The best things to do in Bodmin include visiting Bodmin Jail, exploring Bodmin Moor, walking or cycling the Camel Trail, enjoying nature at Cardinham Woods, and touring Lanhydrock House and Gardens. The town also has historic sites, local markets, and charming cafés to explore.

The nearest airport to Bodmin is Newquay Cornwall Airport, about 16 miles (30 minutes by car). It offers domestic flights across the UK and some European destinations, making it the main gateway for visitors to Cornwall.

The closest beaches to Bodmin are Rock and Polmorla Cove, about 15–20 miles (25–30 minutes by car). Padstow is roughly 16 miles (30 minutes) away, and Bude is around 35 miles (50–55 minutes), offering sandy shores and scenic views for walking, swimming, and water sports.

Lisamarie Lamb

Written by

Lisamarie Lamb

Lisamarie is a writer and researcher with a long-standing love for Cornwall – its towns, coastlines, folklore, and everything in between. Most of her work involves blogging and articles, often focused on places and people, which pairs neatly with her fiction writing since both sides of her work let her balance research with imagination (and indulge a fondness for obscure facts). She lives with her husband, daughter, and a cat called Cheryl in a cottage in the Kent countryside, where she writes, paints, and watches horror films.

35 articles published on Cornwall.co.uk

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Key Facts

  • RegionCentral Cornwall
  • Population16,922 (2021 Census)
  • Post CodePL31
  • Dial Code01208
  • Grid ReferenceSX071665
  • What3words///text.pulled.really
  • Twinned withBederkesa (Germany); Grass Valley (USA) and Le Relecq-Kerhuon (France)
  • Closest beachCarlyon Bay Beach (9 miles)
  • Closest townLostwithiel (4.6 miles)

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