Discover things to do in Bodmin Moor & Tamar Valley

Explore the captivating contrast between the rugged wildness of Bodmin Moor, and the green rolling hills of Tamar Valley. Where the moor offers rocky tors and heathland, the valley has a much more tranquil feel thanks to its tree-lined rivers.
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a World Heritage Site, Bodmin Moor is the perfect place for walkers to explore. Enjoy spectacular views, discover ancient buildings and be in awe of the towering granite tors, including the two highest peaks in Cornwall.

The nearby Tamar Valley is another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, but one with a completely different feel. The lush green river valley is brimming with wildlife and can be explored by foot, by rail on the Tamar Valley Line, or by boat on a scenic river cruise.

Places not to miss

Visiting the area soon? Make sure your itinerary takes in at least a few of the places below.

Bodmin Moor image by Phillip Capper licensed for use from CC 2.0

Bodmin

The town of Bodmin is steeped in history, with the old county courtroom and Bodmin Jail being two of its main attractions. You’ll also find Cornwall’s largest parish church – St Petroc’s – in Bodmin, and the country houses of Lanhydrock and Pencarrow just on the outskirts. There are plenty of outdoor activities on offer too, with Cardinham Woods, the Camel Trail and the moor itself nearby.

Launceston

Launceston is a traditional Cornish market town, full of independent shops, cafes and restaurants selling the local produce, all linked by narrow lanes. Set above the surrounding rolling countryside of the Tamar valley, the quaint historic town is overlooked by the ancient Launceston castle and offers the perfect base to explore the surrounding villages.

 

Royal Albert Bridge image by Geoff Sheppard licensed for use under CC 3.0

Saltash

Situated on the River Tamar opposite Plymouth, Saltash is known as the ‘gateway to Devon’, as it connects Cornwall to its neighbouring county by train, boat and road. A historic but bustling market town, Saltash’s most famous attraction is the Royal Albert Bridge: the suspension bridge engineered by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Rough Tor and Brown Willy

Between Bolventor (home of Jamaica Inn, the public house made famous by Daphne du Maurier’s novel) and Camelford, Rough Tor and Brown Willy are the two highest peaks of Bodmin Moor – and indeed the whole of Cornwall. Weather permitting, walking up and around the tors is always popular with visitors and residents alike.

Choose from many fabulous places to stay in Cornwall, and discover our suggestions of the best things to do in Cornwall.