Enjoy the nostalgic experience of the Bodmin & Wenford railway! Travel back in time through 13 miles of picturesque Cornish countryside that harks back to a 1950s branch line. Most journeys are powered by steam locomotives however some diesels operate on the line too. Trains run between Bodmin General and Bodmin Parkway.

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The marvelously named Dragon Leisure Centre in Bodmin is home to a 25-metre indoor swimming pool and learner pool consisting of six lanes, catering to kids, and their parents who may want to have a little time to themselves.  There’s also a flume, and a spectator friendly area on poolside, as well as lots of opportunities to join one of the structured activities or just pop along for a casual swim.  

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A spectacular, late Victorian country house, garden and wooded estate, Lanhydrock has the vibe of a wealthy but unpretentious family home with a delightful history to learn about on your visit.  The National Trust property was devastated by fire in 1881 and was then refurbished in the latest modern style of the time.  It’s a beautiful example of upstairs/downstairs living with the division between the servants’ quarters and family accommodation evident as you wander from the elegant dining room to the bedrooms, nurseries and kitchens.  The house has a restaurant, café and tea room to relax in, guided walks, workshops and activities, so you can visit and get stuck in or simply enjoy the location as you wish.

An artists garden set in wild woodland with something for everyone.  Step through the arched gateway into the fantasy garden, explore the secret paths, find peaceful hideaways and be immersed in the scents, textures and colour of the unusual plants and natural sculptures. 

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Enjoy 2 for 1 admission tickets with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card

When the ‘Black Prince’ was given newly created title of Duke of Cornwall in 1337, this large estate and castle came with it along with the manor of Restormel, its parkland and the town of Lostwithiel.  He visited the castle twice, but we can take the time get to know it a little better, along with its Wall Walk and stone staircases, and imagine castle life bustling about as you go.  The area is brimming with flowers and wildlife, and the bailey and keep or base court of the castle are a delight, standing proud on a natural high point in the middle of a circular ditch and bank.  The site is open throughout the year, with prices starting at £4 for adults and £2.40 for children, if you’re not an English Heritage member.

Located in the charming town of Bodmin lies Flory's—a refined and inviting restaurant that exudes excellence. With its prime location near Bodmin Moor and the renowned Camel Trail, Flory's offers a remarkable dining experience spread across three impeccably designed floors. The ground floor boasts a cosy cafe and a delightful courtyard ambiance, while the first floor houses the main restaurant area, radiating sophistication. For those seeking a more intimate setting, the top floor showcases private dining rooms, perfect for exclusive gatherings and special occasions. 

A traditional pub located directly upon the Camel Trail. The Borough Arms is dog friendly, has a beer garden and outdoor play area too plus lots of parking. 

Borough Arms - Dunmere, Bodmin, Cornwall (T: 01208 73118)

A popular traditional fish and chip restaurant is a converted chapel serving local Cornish fish and chips and all the trimmings.  Eat in or take away. 

Welcome Stranger Truro Rd, Lanivet, Bodmin PL30 5HF (T01208 831583) 

A real locals pub serving tasty, home cooked meals complete with a friendly welcome. 

Lanivet Inn, Lanivet, Cornwall (T:01208 831212)

We pride ourselves on serving great food in a welcoming atmosphere. Delicious local produce is important to us and our creative menus change regularly to keep things seasonal, local and ‘ansom’!

Popular with families, this idyllic sandy cove offers safe swimming, fantastic watersports and interesting rockpools aswell as tempting beach restaurants.  If you're feeling active there are plenty of  events throughout the year including beach yoga, beach cleans, sailing events, sea swim and stand up paddleboarding events and more.  Hire a paddleboard, learn to sail or simply flop on the sand with a good book, the choice is yours.  Plenty of parking at the main Polkerris carpark just 200yards from the beach. 

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A sheltered beach on the north Cornwall coast, Port Gaverne Beach is in a narrow cove just east of Port Isaac.  It’s comprised of sand and shingle with lots of rock pools to explore at low tide.  In the summer months it can get quite busy given the popularity of the location and its suitability for families.  Surrounding walks along the cliff path are delightful and at high tide the beach is favoured by divers.  There’s also a slipway and it’s sometimes used to launch boats because of the easy access from the road.  Thanks to it proximity to Port Isaac half a mile away facilities and restaurants are nearby, and the beach welcomes dogs all year round.  You can also park in the village although there is limited road parking by the beach itself.

Since the arrival of Doc Martin on the small screen, Port Isaac has soared in popularity, and the pretty little village with the historic harbour, which also serves as the beach, has become instantly recognisable.  Still an active fishing village with crab pots scattered about, the sand stretches between twin piers at low tide and has a small stream and lots of rock pools to explore, so it’s ideal for children.  Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round, and as it’s at the centre of the village there’s easy access to shops and all facilities including public toilets.  The car park for the town is a 10-minute walk away, and while there are a couple of parking spaces on the beach itself, just make sure you park above the high water mark, or keep an eagle eye on the tide!