Bodmin – guide for visiting this Cornwall town in 2023
Bodmin is a town where there is a surprising amount of things to see and do and which is featured in our guide of the best places to stay in Cornwall. From remote, peaceful locations to intense, unforgettable experiences - it has a bit of everything. We wanted to highlight what there is to see and do in this town, all updated for 2023. Let's get into the guide:
Where is Bodmin?
What is there to do during your time in Bodmin?
Bodmin is a great place to visit, here are some of our favourite things for you to check out:
Bodmin Moor
We can't talk about things to do in Bodmin without mentioning Bodmin Moor - although not strictly in Bodmin town, this fascinating natural landmark is only a short drive away.
This 200km square area of moorland is the largest section of the Cornwall AONB, but despite the beauty and the peace found here, it is often overlooked as a place to visit. This is despite the fact that the A30 runs right through the middle of it and lots of cars pass it every day. An aimless wander across the moorland is probably what we'd recommend most people do, however, if you're looking for specific locations to visit then the natural rock formations such as The Cheesewring are oddly creepy and magical to see. If you're fancying a bit of a climb then the two highest peaks in Cornwall, Rough Tor and Brown Willy, can also be found here. Siblyback Lake is also well worth a visit if you're into watersports and you're looking for a dramatic lake perfect for pictures, however make sure you don't miss Dozmary Pool. This is a creepy little pool where many believe King Arthur's sword Excalibur still lurks.
Lanhydrock House and Garden
This country house and the estate is really beautiful to visit and is currently managed by The National Trust. The delights start even before you reach the house - it is quite a long drive through the estate to the house, but you'll pass lots of lovely trees, many of which date back to the 17th century. Once you arrive at the house, there is plenty to see and do. A walk around the area is very pleasant and gives you the chance to explore the impressive plant collection at Lanhydrock, but inside the house you'll find lots of interesting rooms including the Great Hall and the historic kitchens. For anyone interested in historic houses this is a must-see property, learn more here - nationaltrust.org.uk
Camel Valley Vineyard
This award-winning vineyard produces red, white, and sparkling wines using traditional methods, and attracts locals and tourists every year. Daily Guided Tours are available, but if you want to go there and just sample some of their amazing wine then you can buy wine by the glass for £5 and enjoy it on the our sun terrace. Learn more and book your visit (essential) here - camelvalley.com
Bodmin Keep
Often referred to as 'Cornwall's Army Museum', Bodmin Keep is an absolute must-visit for any military and history enthusiasts. Packed with a large collection of more than 12,000 items, there is plenty to see at the museum. The building itself is an artefact - Bodmin Keep is 160 years old and was the former headquarters of the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry. Expect to find uniforms, medals, art, and of course, weapons. You'll find items from the Napoleonic times but also items used in modern warfare, and there is lots to see especially for younger visitors. The museum is only a 10 minute walk from the town square, learn more here - bodminkeep.org
Bodmin Jail Attraction
This 18th-century former prison 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
Things to be aware of before visiting Bodmin
Like we mentioned previously, Bodmin isn't miles away from the beach but it is an inland town, so if you're looking for Cornwall beaches then you're probably better heading somewhere like St Agnes.
You'll find hotel options here - https://www.booking.com/city/gb/bodmin-aireborough.en-gb.html
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotels-g191280-Bodmin_Cornwall_England-Hotels.html
And get an idea of what the weather will be like here - https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast/gbuxhermg
If you enjoyed this guide, check out our other guides about places in Devon & Cornwall including Boscastle, Sidmouth, Kingsbridge, Totnes - and places around the world like Tanzania's National Parks and the best places to visit in Tanzania.
Finn H
Finn is the editor of You Well and has been writing about travel, health, and more for over 10 years.