The Camel Trail is the most cycled off road trail in the UK and it’s easy to see why with its spectacular and varied scenery from coastal to estuary to woodland and forest. The trail is almost completely flat making it accessible and fun for all abilities and ages.
The trail is 18 miles in length from Padstow on the coast up to Wenfordbridge near Bodmin Moor, with Wadebridge and Bodmin in between. Butterwell Farm is 10 miles from Padstow on the trail with Wadebridge being about half way in between.
Wadebridge to Padstow 5 miles
The section between Wadebridge and Padstow is probably the most popular with its stunning estuary scenery and culminating in the beautiful fishing harbour of Padstow bountiful in gastro delights and shopping opportunities galore. From Padstow you can even continue your journey on foot (locking your bike up at Padstow) or with your bike by hoping on the ferry which regularly runs between Padstow and Rock and Daymer Bay. There are three good bike hire shops in Wadebridge with plenty of parking, these are detailed below.
Wadebridge to Bodmin 6 miles
This section running parallel to the River Camel provides a woodland paradise teaming with wildlife and wild flowers. Keep your eyes peeled for river birds, foxes, deer and more. There is even a bird hide at Wadebridge at the entrance to the trail where you can spot estuary and river birds on the water and wetlands. On the section you will find the Camel Valley Vineyard, the Camel Trail Tea Garden and the Borough Arms pub which has a children’s play area. Bodmin has plenty of places to park your bike and main attractions include the Bodmin and Wenford Steam Railway, Bodmin Jail and Cornwall’s Regimental Museum.
Wadebridge to Wenfordbridge 12 miles
The lesser explored section of the Camel Trail diverts off the main line just after Butterwell Farm and the Borough Arms going towards Bodmin. This section has a very slight incline through thick forest and little villages, past fishing pools, potteries and, if you’re lucky, you might even spot the steam train at Boscarne. You’re rewarded on your arrival at Wenfordbridge (April to October) with the Snails Pace Cafe serving breakfasts, lunches, cakes and teas. They also offer bike hire and free parking should you wish to start your Camel Trail journey here. If you want to continue your journey beyond the Camel Trail you can venture beyond Wenfordbridge towards Bodmin Moor and the lovely villages of Blisland and St Breward both with pubs for refreshment.
You can find more information about the trail from these sources:
Padstow Tourist Information: click here
Cornwall Government website: click here
Bike Hire:
We work closely with, and recommend, Bridge Bike Hire in Wadebridge. Bridge Bike Hire is the largest and most comprehensive one stop shop for all your bike hire needs. We highly recommend using their sister company, Go ByCycle, who offer a FREE delivery and collection service to Butterwell Farm. They offer all variety of bikes including road bikes, mountain bikes, electric bikes, family bikes, touring bikes, child seats and infant or dog trailers. There are some other bike hire places in Wadebridge, all with plenty of parking nearby: Camel Trail Cycle Hire and Bike Smart Cornwall. All three offer a large range of options including electric bikes, children’s bikes, tandems, kids “tag-a-longs”, kids trailers, children’s seats, accessible equipment, helmets, locks and puncture repair kits. It is always advisable to book ahead, particularly during school holidays.
