6 things to see and do around Bodmin Moor, Cornwall

If you are anything like me then the term ‘the moors’ will stir up mental images of foggy, boggy wastelands where people get murdered, or catch hypothermia. This is no doubt down to the various films and novels set in this kind of environment. Hound of the Baskervilles and Wuthering Heights, I’m looking at you! However, Bodmin Moor is actually a great hiking spot these days. And although it does occasionally get covered in fog, and is certainly wet underfoot, I would not let some old stories put you off visiting next time you’re in Cornwall. Here are 6 things to see and do around Bodmin Moor:

CHEESEWRING/HURLER STONE CIRCLE

One of my favourite places in Cornwall to watch the sunrise. The Cheesewring is a granite tor just outside the village of Minions (cool name, no?). It’s a strange but completely natural rock structure which towers over the moors, giving visitors a great view of the surrounding area. There’s an associated legend about a throwing contest between a man and a giant, but however it came to be, the Cheesewring is worth seeing. On your way from the car park to the tor, make sure you don’t miss the Hurlers Stone Circles. They are probably the best example of ceremonial stone circles in the South West.

GOLITHA FALLS

If you enjoy woodland walks then one of the finest can be found at Golitha Falls. There is a gentle pathway which leads through the trees and along the rapidly flowing river. But you can veer of a little and get right up close to the water for a wilder experience. Beware there is a lot of scrambling over boulders, some of which are slippery, and there is quite a sharp ascent at one point to get back onto the trail. But if you can manage it it’s well worth the effort. The falls themselves are more of a series of cascades and small waterfalls, but come here after a heavy rainfall and it’s a dramatic sight. Afterwards visit Inky’s Smokehouse BBQ trailer in the car park for a feed.

JAMAICA INN

Cornwall’s most famous smuggling inn. Part of Jamaica Inn’s enduring appeal no doubt comes from Daphne De Maurier’s novel of the same name, which she wrote after staying here in the 1930s. However, it’s also just a great old building with rooms and a restaurant that have retained some of their olde worlde aesthetics. There’s a tiny smuggling museum for those interested in the history of the place. I’ll warn you; it’s touristy as hell and can get very busy because of the tour buses that stop here. But it’s simply one of those places that you’ve got to explore once, just to say you’ve had a pint amongst the ghosts of Jamaica Inn. Book a table or a night’s stay here.

BROWN WILLY TOR/ROUGH TOR

Questionable name aside – which probably comes from one of two Cornish phrases meaning either ‘hill of swallows’ or ‘highest hill’ – Brown Willy is the one must-do hike on Bodmin Moor. It’s the highest point of the moors, so the views are of course great. It’s also right next to Rough Tor, so you could conquer 2 tors in one walk! Bargain. Just remember to wear appropriate clothing and footwear. It can get boggy underfoot in parts and weather is very temperamental here at all times of the year.

BODMIN JAIL

The only paid attraction on the list is worth the entrance fee. Built in 1779, the jail reveals the historical tales of Cornwall’s crime and punishment. A mix of 4D experience and museum, it takes around 1.5-2 hours to get through the whole thing. There’s also a cafe, restaurant and even a hotel on site! I love how the old jail cells have been transformed into luxury rooms. For tickets and more info, or to book on to a paranormal tour, visit their website.

CARDINHAM WOODS

Another woodland to explore, this one with 4 varied walking trails perfect for dog walkers and those with kids. It’s also got 3 absolutely thrilling mountain biking trails for the more adventurous. Cardinham is a great place to get reaquainted with nature’s peace and quiet, while avoiding the busy Cornish coast. A popular spot for locals. For more woodland walks like this and Golitha Falls see this post.

Have these 6 things to see and do around Bodmin Moor encouraged you to visit? Let me know in the comments!