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Spotlight on Bodmin
Think you know Bodmin? Think again!
There’s so much on offer in Cornwall’s historic county town, from history and heritage to events and outdoor activities – something to delight and entertain all the family, and you can even bring the dog in many cases in this particularly dog-friendly destination!
Here are our top ten picks from in and around the town. There’s sure to be a whole day out and more for your diary – and go to the bottom of this post for your chance to win a brilliant bundle of Bodmin experiences!
1. Bodmin Jail
Discover life behind bars as an 18th Century prisoner in the heart of Cornwall. Explore the many cells and features that make your visit to the Jail a fun and educational adventure… and just a little bit scary! Check the calendar for special events and after dark experiences – or enjoy delicious dining in the restaurant.
2. Lanhydrock
This one you’ll already know, but it’s too impressive to miss off the list. The National Trust property sits in beautiful grounds, with café stops and bike hire to enjoy the trails.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lanhydrock
3. Bodmin & Wenford Railway
Journey back in time to the glorious era of steam train travel. Charming 1950s Cornish branchline station Bodmin General Station makes the perfect stop! Don’t miss the railway’s special events.
4. This end of the Camel Trail
You’re probably familiar with the trail, but have you strolled, cycled or walked the dog starting from this end? With the Camel Trail Tea for cake, Burrough Arms for lunch and a pint or Camel Valley Vineyard for fine wine all at the Bodmin end of the trail, make sure you venture this far.
www.cornwall.gov.uk/cameltrail
5. Cornwall’s Regimental Museum
Walk in the footsteps of the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry and explore Bodmin’s Grade II listed Victorian Keep. Discover the stories of Cornwall’s soldiers through the ages, and see hundreds of amazing objects spanning over 300 years of military life.
www.cornwalls-regimentalmuseum.org
6. Stop for lunch at an independent cafe or a pint in the pub
There are plenty of independent cafes for lunch or just tea and cake including top picks The Beehive, The Folly Tearooms or Chapter8. There are also several pubs including Hole in the Wall, with a cracking real ale selection and previous winner of CAMRA ‘Town Pub of the Year.’
7. Magnificent Mount Folly
Including not one but three points of interest on the square alone. The Courtroom Experience, Town Museum, and TIC are housed in these historic buildings with striking architecture, and the beautiful square regularly plays host to busy and vibrant events throughout the year. PS. Don’t miss a look around St Petroc’s Church a two minute wander down Honey Street, for the stunning character of this 15th century church, the second largest in the county.
8. Bodmin Moor
Explore the moor, which confirms its status as one of Cornwall’s star attractions having recently been designated an International Dark Sky Landscape, making it the first International Dark Sky Place in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
9. Beacon Nature Reserve
It’s not hard to spot the 1857 Gilbert Monument above the town skyline, but in fact the monument sits in an 87 acre nature reserve including traditionally managed farmland, public amenity space and community woodland, perfect for a walk or picnic stop. Spot the sculptural benches depicting the history of the town, created by local metalwork artists the Thrussels.
10. Cardinham Woods
Walking and cycling trails to suit all abilities. This dog-friendly destination features the new Forestry Commission Highway Rat Activity Trail to keep the children entertained. Don’t miss a stop at the award winning Woods Café, which we highly recommend.
Upcoming Bodmin event highlights:
- Easter Murder Mystery evening including dinner at Bodmin Jail, 30th March www.bodminjail.org
- Paddington visits Bodmin & Wenford Railway, 12th & 13th May www.bodminrailway.co.uk
- Fairport Convention play The St Petroc’s Sessions, 31st May www.intobodmin.co.uk
- Go on an immersive theatre journey starting at Cornwall’s Regimental Museum with The Trench at Bodmin, 18th June to 15th July www.thetrenchbodmin.co.uk
Competition: Experience Bodmin…
We’re running a competition for your chance to win a brilliant bundle of Bodmin experiences. Enjoy just a handful of the cultural, heritage, culinary and active experiences on offer in Bodmin with the following jam-packed prize package:
- Family tickets for both Cornwall’s Regimental Museum AND Bodmin & Wenford Railway
- Dining for two at the new regular Thursday night Steak & Shank night at Bodmin Jail, including a bottle of wine
- A cream tea for two at the award-winning Woods Café
- Hire of two bikes courtesy of TrailMunki to take to the trails in Cardinham Woods
- Two tickets to see Fairport Convention play The St Petroc’s Sessions on 31st May – part of their 50th anniversary tour.
To enter just email [email protected] telling us your favourite thing about Bodmin. Whether it’s a memory, a favourite place, or something you’re looking forward to in the future – we want to know!
The closing date is Monday 16th April.