Exploring the Camel Trail

Tracing the Trail

Beginning at Wenfordbridge and meandering through Bodmin, Wadebridge, and concluding at Padstow, the Camel Trail shows off some of the beautiful and varied Cornish countryside. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely family outing or a tranquil escape into nature, this multi-use trail promises breath-taking views across the Camel Estuary, nestled within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Exploring the Route

Head out on your own bike or hire one for the day from any of the several bike hire stations along the trail. From the serene stretch leading to Wenfordbridge, gradually ascending towards Bodmin Moor, to the bustling path between Wadebridge and Padstow, where the estuary teems with wildlife, including wading birds, each section offers its own unique charm.

A Historical Legacy

Delve into the rich history that lines the Camel Trail, tracing back to the 19th century when the Padstow to Wadebridge railway line first opened its tracks. Initially serving as a conduit for transporting sea sand to inland farms, this historic route has since evolved into a beloved recreational pathway for all to use.

The section from Wadebridge to Poley’s Bridge is one of the oldest in the world, opened in 1834, intended initially to transport sea sand from the estuary to inland farms. The Padstow to Wadebridge line, opened in 1899, provided access from Waterloo via Okehampton and Launceston. While Bodmin through to Wadebridge operated until 1967 as part of the mainline system, the line between Bodmin and Poley’s Bridge, solely used for freight, closed in 1984.

Charms of Padstow

Explore the quaint streets of Padstow, once a bustling port and now a haven for those seeking coastal tranquillity. From its picturesque harbour to the sprawling Prideaux Place, immerse yourself in the town’s rich heritage before venturing forth along the scenic coast path towards Stepper Point.

Stop off in Wadebridge

Wadebridge serves as the gateway to the Camel Trail, boasting a vibrant town centre, enjoy a mooch around this bustling market town and a pasty before setting off on your journey through the surrounding woodlands.

Historic Bodmin

Bodmin, founded in 530 AD by St. Petroc and St. Guron, derives its name from ‘bod meneghi,’ meaning ‘dwelling of the monks.’ Serving as an administrative centre, it now hosts the Bodmin Visitor Information Centre and ‘Murder on the Moor,’ a re-creation of an infamous 19th-century trial. Boasting attractions such as a steam railway, old gaol, and town museum, Bodmin also offers access to Lanhydrock House and the renowned Eden Project via the Cornish Way multi-use route.

Woodlands

The route from Wadebridge to Poley’s Bridge traverses through magnificent woodland, much of which is cared for by the Forestry Commission. These woods feature native trees like oak, ash, and beech, accompanied by an understorey of hazel, holly, or spindle, echoing the lush hedgerows flanking each side of the trail.