Bodmin Moor is one of the most wild and dramatic landscapes in England. It has been inhabited since mankind’s infancy; its history encompasses tales of smuggling and murder, yet in summer you will be amazed by the soft yellow light, and the enchanting smell as you walk through patches of wild camomile.
A hike up to Roughtor will certainly work up an appetite for a good pub lunch, and the views of both north and south coast are spectacular. The moors are littered with stone circles, some within walking distance of Helsbury Park at Stannon. There’s also King Arthur’s Hall (possibly a Neolithic ‘henge’), Brown Willy (Cornwall’s only mountain), Jamaica Inn and Delphy Bridge all nearby; further afield the Hurlers, the Cheesewring and Golitha Falls are all well worth exploring too. With Cardinham Woods a must for a dog walk there is so much to do and see.
Villages on the moor
The moorland villages often have fascinating histories of their own with ancient churches; hidden holy wells and winding footpaths to explore. Most of the villages offer excellent hospitality including: Blisland, St Breward, Minions and St Neot. Away from the hurly-burly of the coast this is Cornwall at its best: friendly, peaceful and welcoming.
Bodmin Moor is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty [AONB].