Exploring myths and legends on Bodmin Moor walks

Bodmin Moor is located in Liskeard in Cornwall and is one of the largest unspoilt areas in the South West, containing many remains and ruins from its prehistoric and medieval past. The moor consists of wide expanses of open moorland, marshes and bogs dominated by large granite tors (or peaks). Bodmin Moor walks are some of the best you’ll find in Cornwall, here is our pick of walks that take in folklore and legend on the way.

Walks

St Breward to King Arthur’s Hall is a good walk of about 5 miles long. The circular route from St Breward crosses the moor and takes in the mysterious prehistoric monument of King Arthur’s Hall on the way. You then rebuild your strength at the Old Inn in town. There is parking next to the lovely ornate church. If you’re interested in the stories of King Arthur then you can also visit Dozmary Pool nearby. This natural, quiet lake with no visible source of water supply is said to the home of the Lady of the Lake and the resting place of the legendary sword Excalibur.

Another great Bodmin route is the Blisland and Pendriff Downs walk which is 4.3 miles long. Leaving from Blisland , the walk descends into a wooded valley along the De Lank River where you can visit the Delank granite quarries. You’ll also come across ‘Jubilee Rock’, a huge granite boulder covered in fine decorative carvings said to commemorate the 1810 golden Jubilee of King George III. You can visit the Blisland Inn for lunch on your return.

A don’t miss walk for lovers of mysterious prehistory remains is the Stannon Moor monuments walk. This walk passes the Stannon stone circle, two further stone circles, a number of prehistoric settlements and a burial chamber. At around 4 miles long, that’s a lot of prehistory for your efforts.

The famous Smuggler’s Way walking route is 37 miles in total and takes you across the harbours of Boscastle on the Atlantic Coast to Looe situated on the English Channel. The route encounters the rugged but breath-taking scenery of the moor, follows picturesque paths beside rivers and also visits the famous Jamaica Inn. This old coaching inn built in 1750 was used as a resting point for cunning smugglers of the time and due to its remote and isolated location was the ideal hiding place for contraband. These days the Inn also has a museum showcasing one of the finest and possibly largest collections of smuggling artefacts in the UK. The Smuggler’s Way route is for the more experienced walker as the path isn’t marked out so a map and compass is advised.

Keep an eye out for the legendary Beast of Bodmin on all your walks. This mysterious, phantom wild cat is thought to have been spotted many times by the local residents of the area with many farmers blaming the beast for brutal killings of their livestock. Is the creature real or just a myth?

Equipment and Safety

When going on a walking holiday, it is a good idea to take some essential equipment to ensure everyone’s safety. Be sure to take suitable footwear that is sturdy and waterproof and take plasters to help with blisters. Drink plenty of fluid as you walk no matter what the weather is like, dehydration will rapidly put an end to what should be an enjoyable walk and pay particular attention to young children who will tire easily. Take waterproof clothing in case it should rain and ideally wear light layers of clothing so you can quickly cool down or warm up. Don’t forget your map and make sure you know your route.

Other Bodmin Moor Attractions

The Bodmin Moor has plenty of great family attractions to enjoy in and around the area. Take a visit to the Carnglaze Slate Caverns situated on the south side of the moor near to the picturesque village of St.Neot. Here you can take an underground tour of the old mine which ends with a view of the glittering subterranean lake - a sight not to be missed! The Trethorne Leisure Park is a fantastic day out for all the family. Located just 15 minutes from Bodmin Moor, this fun activity centre comprises large indoor and outdoor play areas, a small farm where kids can play with cute animals, dodgems and ten-pin bowling. Adults will also love Pencarrow House and Gardens in Washaway, Bodmin where you can explore the grand rooms and gardens of this lovely Georgian mansion.

Bodmin Moor is a place of outstanding natural beauty with plenty of inspiring walking routes to suit everybody as well as some great camping locations. There are a variety of other attractions in and around the area too so make Bodmin Moor top of the destination list for your family camping holiday!