Cycling is one of our favourite ways to get around as a family, as it means you get out in the fresh air and really get to see the countryside. A cycle along the Camel Trail in Cornwall is a fun thing to do for the whole family.
CYCLING THE CAMEL TRAIL
The Camel Trail is a seventeen mile traffic free route based on an historic railway track. The original Bodmin & Wadebridge Railway, one of the oldest railway lines in the world, opened in 1834 and ran from Wadebridge to Wenfordbridge, with a spur to Bodmin. This line was originally built to carry sand from the estuary for use as fertiliser inland and rock/minerals out for shipment by sea. Fifty years on, in 1885, the London & South Western Railway, which started at London Waterloo, finally reached Wadebridge. In 1889 the line was extended to Padstow. The line was finally closed in 1984.
BIKE HIRE FOR THE CAMEL TRAIL
There are many options for bike hire along the Camel Trail. Bikes can be hired in Wadebridge, Padstow and Bodmin.
We always head to Wadebridge as the start point for any cycle on the Camel Trail. In Wadebridge there are several bike hire shops situated close to the trail. There are two cycling options from here, the five mile journey from Wadebridge to Padstow, or the six mile trip to Bodmin. We have cycled both routes on a number of different occasions.
A range of bikes and accessories can be hired to suit all families. Adult and child sized bikes of various sizes are available as well as tandems, tag-a-longs, bike seats and trailers. Cycle helmets are provided. We usually hire bikes from Camel Trail Cycle Hire and have always had well maintained bikes complete with the necessary helmets.
THE CAMEL TRAIL FROM WADEBRIDGE TO PADSTOW
Our favourite cycle route along the Camel Trail is definitely Wadebridge to Padstow, as you ride alongside the Camel Estuary all the way too Padstow. The views along this whole section are spectacular, out across the estuary to the beaches of Rock and Daymer Bay.
Once in Padstow park the bikes (bike locks provided) and wander the pretty harbour town stopping for some refreshments. We would recommend the traditional Cornish pasties, some of the best fish and chips anywhere at Rick Stein’s, or an ice cream. Another option is to catch the ferry across the estuary to Rock for a sit on the beach before heading back again.
The 5 mile cycle between Wadebridge and Padstow takes between 45 minutes to an hour at a leisurely pace. This is the easier of the two routes, perfect for children, flat all the way.
THE CAMEL TRAIL FROM WADEBRIDGE TO BODMIN
The second route from Wadebridge to Bodmin makes for an interesting change if you are a regular to this part of Cornwall. However, it is not as picturesque and there is a gentle incline most of the way. This is the tougher route, particularly with small children. Our youngest was six when we first attempted this route. He managed fine but he’s been cycling since he was three! Additionally Bodmin is not nearly as attractive as Padstow. There is a lovely tea room along the route, worthy of a stop. Towards the end of the Bodmin trail is the Borough Arms which is a family friendly pub with large beer gardens and children’s play area.
FOR MORE ON CORNWALL:
We would highly recommend cycling the Camel Trail while in this part of Cornwall. A perfect activity with children young or old.
Have you cycled the Camel Trail in Cornwall? Any hint or tips?
Any post on this site may contain affiliate links which earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you.
