One town centre – with so much to do, see and discover. So, where to start? Here, we share some of our favourite sights and stopping points.
Bodmin is a town of character and care. Its streets tell stories that stretch back centuries – from ancient landscapes to an imposing Victorian jail – while a thriving community of independent shops, cafés, and creative spaces lend it a warm, welcoming feel. Whether you’re drawn to history, invigorated by nature, or simply soaking up life in a Cornish community, there’s plenty here to fill your time.
We’ve gathered some of the top things to do in Bodmin’s thriving town centre, whether you have an hour or two to spare or a while to settle in…
Our town centre is a real treasure trove. If you’re able to stay awhile, there’s ample opportunity to explore what Bodmin has to offer.
Step back in time at Bodmin Town Museum
Pull at the threads of Bodmin’s past at the Town Museum, where local history comes to life. From ancient artifacts to Victorian treasures, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s centuries-long evolution. Allow yourself an hour or two to wander through the displays at your leisure – you’ll find tales of Bodmin’s people, trades, and traditions waiting to be told.
The museum is located on Mount Folly Square, just across from the Shire Hall.
Coffee and a browse on Fore Street
Set within Bodmin’s grand old library are intoBodmin, a local arts organisation (which also runs workshops and walks), and The Old Library Café: a laid-back space in which to meet and eat. Pop along for coffee and cake or a lunchtime treat – or, on a sunny day, sit out in the café’s community garden. Afterwards, take your time wandering along Fore Street, where the shops are dotted with unexpected finds, from vintage treasures to handcrafted goods.
To visit The Old Library, stroll along Fore Street towards Lower Bore Street.
Walk up to Bodmin Beacon Nature Reserve
If you’ve time for a climb, the reward at the top is well worth the effort. The Gilbert Monument stands proudly on Bodmin Beacon, offering sweeping views across the Cornish countryside. Once you’ve caught your breath, venture into the Bodmin Beacon Nature Reserve – a beautiful area of heathland that’s home to butterflies, birds, and wildflowers. It’s a perfect escape into nature, all within easy reach of the town.
The footpath to Gilbert Monument begins on Berry Tower Hill, off Beacon Road.
Making a little more time creates the chance to wander further, do more, and look deeper. With a half-day ahead, you can slow down and soak in your surroundings.
Visit Bodmin Jail
Rich in atmosphere and old, eerie tales, Bodmin Jail takes visitors on a journey through 200 years of crime and punishment. Self-guided tours mean you can take things at your own pace (we suggest allowing around two hours), before heading to the Moor Café for a spot of lunch. Or opt for a guided tour, peeping into some of the jail’s darkest corners with an expert storyteller.
You’ll find Bodmin Jail on Berrycombe Road, an easy walk from Fore Street.
Journey on the Bodmin Railway
Pop from town to countryside in a surprisingly short time – a ride on Bodmin Railway transports you through some of the area’s most scenic spots. Spend an afternoon steaming along its historic railway line, pulled by a vintage engine. A circular ticket will take you from the nearby Bodmin General station, along two branch lines and back home again, with short stops on the way.
Your starting station for Bodmin Railway is a 10-15-minute walk from the town centre, on Harleigh Road.
Join a workshop at Bodmin Gallery & Creative Studio
Keen to try something different? At Bodmin Gallery & Creative Studio, you can stretch your skills in a welcoming, friendly environment. The studio runs a number of half-day and full-day workshops throughout the year – these vary depending on the season or series, so we suggest checking and booking in advance. Past and current sessions have included activities like willow weaving, nature drawing and silverwork.
Workshops are based at the gallery, on Bodmin’s Fore Street.
Get hands-on at Discovering42
Tap into the joy of discovery at Cornwall’s innovative (and award-winning) art, science and sustainability museum. Here, there’s every chance to get stuck in as you play, test and experiment. Fusing subjects like chemistry and physics with craft activities and environmental awareness, a visit will stretch your imagination in new and interesting ways.
For those carefree days when you’ve got time in hand, combine some of the above to curate a full day out. For instance, Bodmin Jail and Bodmin Railway are conveniently close together, creating a living history tour of the town. Or make lunch at The Old Library Café your reward for climbing the Beacon. However you mix and match, Bodmin will make the most of your time.
Bodmin’s wonderful variety of landscapes – from historic sites to vast natural spaces – make it the perfect place for childhood discoveries. Here, the active and adventurous can get stuck-in, let off steam, and learn by doing.
In Bodmin, no two days are the same – there’s always a fresh find or new excitement to share. If you’re visiting as a family, this is a place where kids come into their own as they stride out, unearth new experiences, and lean into their natural curiosity. Here, we’ve collected some of our recommended family days out in Bodmin, but there’s also so much more to discover. If you’re looking for extra inspiration, we recommend taking time to check out local events, investigate the area, and head off the beaten track.
Lanhydrock
Now owned by the National Trust, Lanhydrock was once a grand home for generations of the Robartes family. Yet this historic site is anything but stuffy: there’s a huge amount here especially for kids, both in the house and surrounding it. In the mansion, the original nursery wing has been opened up for interactive fun. Children can dress up (as the Robartes children loved to do), ride the rocking horse, and play traditional board games. And, out in the wider estate, you’re free to let off steam in the parkland play area and cycle trails.
Priory Park
If you’re spending a day in town, following our family trail, or looking for free things to do, make a pitstop at Priory Park. The largest area of green space in Bodmin’s centre, the park is here for everyone. A children’s playground, buggy-friendly paths, a duck pond, and picnic areas – as well as essentials like toilets and baby changing facilities – mean you can easily while away an hour or two.
Discovering42
Children can be life’s most curious and creative thinkers. For budding scientists, makers and environmentalists, a trip to Discovering42 is sure to nurture the spark. Here, kids can dive in – hands-first – with a whole host of interactive, touchy-feely topics, from physics and engineering to intuitive crafts. And, after all that, you can head off to the museum’s café, ready to whip up your own “magic mocktails”.
Bodmin Railway
If you’re out to uncover new experiences, Bodmin Railway is a uniquely memorable way to explore. Children will love the chance to ride in vintage carriages, spot the steaming engine, and wave at passers-by as they whip through the countryside. The journey takes you through miles of Cornish scenery, with options for various themed events throughout the year. It’s a brilliant trip for trainspotters of all ages, while the shorter routes are perfect for younger passengers with smaller attention spans.
Camel Trail
Meandering along for more than 18 miles, the Camel Trail creates the rare chance for children (and parents) to roam in confidence. Outside of its main towns, the trail is entirely car-free, so younger walkers can stroll safely, while its flat surface makes it perfect for family cycle rides. Pick up the route here in Bodmin from Scarletts Well Road, heading along the main pathway towards Padstow, or out in the direction of Wenford Bridge. With younger children, it’s probably best to tackle just one leg of the tour (such as Bodmin to Wadebridge), although you’ll also find cafes for rest points along the way.
Cardinham Woods
Just ten minutes outside Bodmin, Cardinham Woods is a popular family destination. If you’re off for a walk, the best route for little ones and pushchairs is around Lady Vale, which follows the river upstream. If your children are older or more confident, there are also downloadable cycle trails available (or follow the coloured trail markers around the woods). Or, you might prefer to let the kids lead – curious explorers can look out for Gruffalo sculptures and resident wildlife. For a small charge, you can also hire a Forest Activity Bag from the Ranger’s Hut.
Super Tramp
If the weather takes a turn (or the kids just have energy to spare), Super Tramp could be the answer. This indoor trampoline park is designed for freedom: jumping, flipping, and bouncing in a safe environment. There are dedicated sessions for different age groups, including toddler times, so even the littlest bouncers can join in. Foam pits, dodgeball courts and obstacle courses all add to the fun and frolics.
Bodmin Beacon Nature Reserve
For an adventure closer to nature, head to the Bodmin Beacon Nature Reserve. This peaceful spot offers gentle walking trails with far-reaching views across Bodmin Moor and beyond. It’s an excellent place for wildlife spotting, so keep your eyes peeled for butterflies, birds, and (later in the day) bats. The paths are manageable for most ages, though pushchairs might struggle on some of the rougher sections. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it, letting the children amble at their own pace.
In every rainy day – whether it’s damp Cornish drizzle or a heavy downpour – there’s an invitation to change course, step inside and seek shelter. Wet weather can be a prompt to discover something new.
Spring is famous for its showers, but even the summer months can bring their share of sweeping dark clouds. In Bodmin, there’s no reason for rain to stop play. From stately homes to live shows, there’s always an undercover adventure to find.
Atmospheric attractions
New experiences aren’t only found in the great outdoors – our local attractions are steeped in atmosphere. Step inside Bodmin Jail, where tall stone walls and jail cells have tales to tell. Here, you can capture the eerie thrill of histories that unfold “behind bars”. Or journey into the countryside while staying safely under cover, courtesy of Bodmin Railway. A ride in a vintage carriage gives you a window onto 13 miles of scenery, with the added magic of steam power.
Historic houses
When the forecast looks mixed, take a trip to one of Bodmin’s historic estates. Both Lanhydrock and Pencarrow have vast gardens to explore during dry spells, as well as woodland areas for shelter during showers. And, if rain sets in – or even if it doesn’t – you can head inside to explore their grand houses. Both estates have cafés serving cream teas, cakes and lunches, while Lanhydrock also has a second-hand bookshop for a leisurely browse.
Performances and screenings
If the weather outside is gloomy, escape to another world for an hour or two. Bodmin’s Capitol Cinema on Mount Folly Square shows a mix of recent releases and stage-to-screen productions. Or tap into stories, song or dance at a live performance. Found in the heart of town, the BEAT offers a packed programme of shows, with other events held at The Old Library, St Petroc’s Church, and local community venues.
Discovery hotspots
A day spent indoors can lead to a wealth of fresh discoveries. With more time to spare, immerse yourself in places that provoke curiosity. At Bodmin Town Museum, a wander among the collections takes you deep into the lives of generations past. Not far away, at Bodmin Keep, exploration takes a military turn, with 300 years of army history in one place. And, at Discovering42, you can stretch your imagination and understanding as you get hands-on with interactive art and science exhibits.
Good to know…
Some local attractions adopt winter opening hours, or close during the quietest months of the year. We’d always recommend checking ahead, before setting off.