The Camel Trail – see the best of Cornwall on this excellent cycle route
If you're looking for a route to follow on your bike that'll take you through some of the best parts of Cornwall, then look no further than the Camel Trail. Cycling along this 18 mile long trail is a perfect way to spend a few hours of your time, and we definitely consider it to be one of the best ways to see some of the prettiest parts of Cornwall. We wanted to highlight this trail and what there is to see along the way, as well as provide some advice for anyone following the trail in 2023. Let's get into the guide:
Where is the Camel Trail?
What is there to see along the Camel Trail?
Because the trail takes you past so many towns and villages, there is the opportunity to see quite a lot if you wished. However, we wanted to highlight a few of the things which we think are the best to see along the trail. We'll also be listing them in the order that you'll see them if you start in Padstow. Keep in mind that some of these locations and attractions might require you to leave the route briefly, which is well worth doing if you have the time! Let's take a look:
The National Lobster Hatchery (Padstow)
Grab a crepe from the Cornish Crepe Company (Padstow)
It might be a little early in your journey for a snack, but the crepes served up at the Cornish Crepe Company are well worth stopping for. From a beach hut at The Railway Car Park you can buy freshly made crepes with either a sweet or savoury filling. Always best eaten fresh, but also a really nice snack to take with you along the Camel Trail. Maybe just don't try to eat it while you are cycling!!
Daymer Bay Beach (Wadebridge)
This lovely beach is a great place to stop for a quick break and something to eat (maybe your crepe if you've still got it!). At low tide the beach is particularly stunning as the sand is vast and perfect for strolling along.
Porteath Bee Centre (Wadebridge)
Ok, so bear with us here! This bee centre is actually really fun and informative, with plenty to see and do. You'll find out about what bees actually do and how they do it, which is really interesting. Plus, it's a great opportunity to stock up on some delicious honey from the centre. We definitely think it is worth a visit.
Bodmin Jail (Bodmin)
The trail will take you right through Bodmin which is an excellent place for a stop as there is plenty to see and do here. We actually have an entire guide about this town here, and one of our must-do things is to visit Bodmin Jail. is an immersive experience which manages to be both interesting and slightly creepy. Each section of the building has been renovated to include special features and details which help to capture what it must have been like to be a prisoner here in the 18th century. The whole experience leads up to the final section - The Last Moments, where you reach a fully working Victorian Hanging Pit in the room where prisoners would have been executed.. This experience will definitely stick with you, learn more and book tickets here - bodminjail.org
Pencarrow (Bodmin)
If you're in Bodmin and you're looking for a bite to eat then Flory Restaurant and Cafe is a great option - it's open for brunch all day from 10-30 or lunch from midday, and dinner starts 5-30pm. It's located close to Priory car park so it's very handy, and it has a courtyard with bike storage so it's ideal if you're cycling the Camel Trail.
Things to be aware of before heading on the Camel Trail
Obviously, if you're cycling then you want to bring some water and snacks with you, and always come prepared with a first aid kit. Many of the locations we've recommended in this guide will require you to stray off the trail somewhat, so if you're going to visit them then set aside a good amount of time and book some accommodation too. Other than that, enjoy yourself!
Where to hire a bike?
If you haven't got a bike then you can hire one from a number of places in Padstow. Padstow Cycle Hire does exactly what it says on the tin with a good selection of bikes, Trail Bike Hire is another option as is Camel Trail Cycle Hire where the staff have great knowledge about the trail.
If you enjoyed this guide, check out our other guides about great UK trails including the Exe Estuary Trail, the Borders Abbey Way, the Two Saints Way, and the Kintyre 66. Looking for more guides about places in and around Devon? We've got guides about Braunton, Worthing, and Sidmouth.
Finn H
Finn is the editor of You Well and has been writing about travel, health, and more for over 10 years.