Exploring Bodmin Town Centre
Our top ways to spend your time – whether you’re just passing through or here to stay.
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…
If you have two hours
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.
If you have a morning (or afternoon)
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.
If you have a full day
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.