Walking the Camel Trail is a wonderful experience that will take you through some of the most beautiful and peaceful countryside in Cornwall, UK. The trail follows the course of the River Camel for 18 miles (29 km) from Padstow on the coast, through Wadebridge and Bodmin, all the way to Poley’s Bridge inland.
The Camel Trail is a former railway line that has been converted into a scenic and popular trail for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The trail is flat, wide, and mostly traffic-free, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
As you walk along the Camel Trail, you’ll be surrounded by stunning countryside, passing through ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and rolling hills. You’ll also encounter a variety of wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and a wide range of bird species.
Along the way, you’ll pass through charming Cornish towns and villages, such as Wadebridge and Bodmin, where you can stop and rest at local cafes and pubs. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore historic landmarks, such as the 13th-century church of St. Petroc in Padstow and the 15th-century Bodmin Jail.
Walking the Camel Trail is not just about the destination, but also about the journey. The trail offers a chance to slow down, appreciate nature, and connect with the local community. It is a great way to explore the stunning Cornish countryside and experience the magic of the River Camel.
So, put on your walking shoes and embark on this wonderful journey. Whether you choose to walk the entire trail or just a section of it, you’ll be rewarded with a unique and memorable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, invigorated, and inspired.
Walk the Camel Trail or ride it by bike, the trail is a multi-user trail used by cyclists, walker, joggers and horse riders, based on two sections of disused railway line from Padstow via Wadebridge and Boscarne Junction to Bodmin (11 miles), and from Wenfordbridge to Poley’s Bridge on the edge of Bodmin Moor (7 miles). The Padstow to Wadebridge section is along the Camel estuary, the rest through densely wooded landscapes.
The largely traffic-free trail follows the route of an old railway line once used by the London and South West Railway. It’s ideal for family cycling as it’s fairly level all the way and the views of moorland, woodland and estuary are spectacular.
The route runs through both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). It’s a great place to spot otters, bats, dormice, kingfishers, little egrets, marsh orchids and marsh marigolds. The trail is used by walkers, joggers, cyclists and horse-riders.
Total mileage: 17.3 miles, 27.8 kilometers
Walking Time: 5 hours and 45 minutes. (Based on average 3 miles an hour)
Cycling Time: 1 hour 30 minutes. (Based on average 3 miles an hour)
Camel Trail Map
