The best walks and hikes around Camelford

Yes, there are over 200 hiking routes in the area. These range from easy riverside strolls to challenging treks across the open moorland of Bodmin Moor, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

Hikes on Bodmin Moor feature wide-open, rugged landscapes with granite tors like Rough Tor and Brown Willy. The ground can be uneven, boggy in places, and involves walking over 'clitter'—a natural tumble of granite boulders. Expect rolling hills and panoramic views.

Absolutely. Many trails are designed as loops so you can start and end in the same place. For a substantial circular hike across the moors that takes in historical sites, consider the Brown Willy Summit – King Arthur's Hall loop from St. Breward.

Yes, many trails around Camelford are suitable for dogs. Crowdy Reservoir is a popular spot for dog walking with free parking. When hiking on Bodmin Moor, be mindful of livestock and keep your dog under control, especially during lambing season.

Cardinham Woods is an excellent choice for families, offering several well-marked trails of varying lengths through a beautiful forest, along with a café for refreshments. The Camel Trail is another great option, providing a flat and traffic-free path ideal for walkers of all ages.

For a scenic walk featuring waterfalls, head to Golitha Falls National Nature Reserve. A trail follows the River Fowey as it cascades through a gorge in an ancient oak woodland. The paths can be steep and muddy in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the dramatic, wild beauty of Bodmin Moor and the stunning coastal scenery. The mix of prehistoric sites, panoramic views, and the sense of solitude are frequently mentioned as highlights.

For those seeking a challenge, the area offers several demanding hikes. The Roughtor Moors – Brown Willy Summit loop from Tresinney is a long and strenuous 10.9-mile (17.5 km) trek across the exposed moorland, requiring good navigation skills and fitness.

Camelford is a short drive from the North Cornwall coast, which offers spectacular hiking. A popular section of the South West Coast Path runs between Boscastle and Tintagel, featuring dramatic cliffs, historic castle ruins, and secluded coves like Rocky Valley.

Many walks in the region pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. For example, several routes start or finish in St. Breward, which has a pub that is a popular spot for a post-hike meal or drink after exploring the surrounding moors.

For hikes to Rough Tor and Brown Willy, there is a dedicated car park at the foot of Rough Tor which serves as a convenient starting point for several popular routes. Other trailheads and villages around the moor also offer parking, but it can be limited.

Yes, the famous Camel Trail is nearby. It's an 18-mile, largely flat and traffic-free path following a disused railway line, making it perfect for cyclists of all abilities, as well as for walkers and families.