Bodmin Moor

First farmed over 4000 years ago by bronze age settlers, Bodmin Moor is of one the last great unspoilt areas in the South West and much of its prehistoric and medieval past remains untouched by the passing of the centuries. The Moor is dominated by dramatic granite tors which tower over the sweeping expanses of open moorland. Marshes and bogs on the high moor drain into shallow moorland valleys before the rivers cross onto softer shales around the Moor and carve themselves deep river valleys, providing shelter for rich, damp oak woodland.

Historically, Bodmin Moor was a landscape which engendered fear and awe, but which has also provided inspiration for writers, poets and sculptors. It has generated folklore and legend, with fact and fiction at times blending into one another as tales were passed down over the generations.

Bodmin Moor is a home to Ravens, Ferns, Lichens and Mosses, Buzzards mewing overhead, beautiful yellow-flowered Gorse, stunted thorn trees, and a wonderful variety of birds, wild flowers, small mammals and livestock. The moor is a wild place and remains untamed, yet at the same time it is a sympathetically managed working landscape.

Bodmin Moor is, for much of its area, an upland of thin poor soil sitting on top of hard granite rock. In places this hard rock breaks through the surface forming tors - hills crowned by fantastically shaped rocks, often known as ‘cheesewrings’. There are thirty-five of these tors on the moor, and most are accessible to the adventurous walker.

If you are looking to explore Bodmin Moor on foot, the Best of Bodmin Moor website has guide books for £2.95 each with a selection of routes that show off the rich and varied landscapes of Bodmin Moor. Six walks on and around Bodmin Moor Volume 3 covers the closest side of the moor. The book will navigate you through high moorland as well as wooded valleys and gentle farmlands. The author has tried to include as much information about the archaeological and industrial history as possible and each walk comes with an illustrated map, hopefully good enough to guide you round! Visit their website http://www.bestofbodminmoor.co.uk/books-and-downloads/walk-books for more information.

If the idea of horse riding on Bodmin Moor appeals, the T. M. International School of is fortunate to be situated on the edge of Bodmin Moor. If you are not an experienced rider, the school offers a ‘Tourist Package’, which consists of individual tuition in a manege (sand enclosure) for about half an hour, followed by about an hour riding out on Bodmin Moor. For experienced riders, hacks of one or two hours are available, as are lessons in the various disciplines. You do need to book beforehand by ringing (01579) 362895, preferably between 7pm and 8pm.

Cardinham Woods on Bodmin offers a choice of waymarked trails that will take you deep into the woods to discover stunning viewpoints and an intriguing history. There is a walk to suit everyone, from the picturesque all-ability Lady Vale Trail to the longer, more challenging, Lidcutt Valley Walk. As well as enjoying these walking trails you can take a picnic and relax by the peaceful stream, use the BBQ facilities or enjoy a drink in the café. The mix of deciduous and coniferous tree species supports a great diversity of woodland plants and animals that can be discovered along the tracks and trails. The thickest part of the woods provides a sanctuary for both red and roe deer, whilst otters frequent the river. There is also the Woods Café, situated just off the main car park - the Woods Cafe is a charming centuries-old woodsman's cottage with a lovely open fire and a welcoming atmosphere.

01840 230 360 or enquire online

Bodmin Moor

01840 230 360
or enquire online