Bodmin was once home to the notorious 1497 Cornish rebellion Thomas Flamank. The town centre is dominated by the newly refurbished Shire Hall. This listed building was Cornwall’s Assize Court and where you can witness the re-enactment of a famous 19th century murder trial. Follow the town trail to St Petrocs a 15th century parish church, which is the largest in Cornwall, with remains of a monastery and priory.
Now a museum, Bodmin Gaol was built in 1778 and was once the county prison, notorious for its cramped conditions and public hangings, the last which took place in 1909.
Beaches are on either coastline and approx 45 minutes drive.
Bodmin has a wealth of restaurants and pubs to choose from. You may wish to journey slightly north to eat at Jamaica Inn, which is situated approx 10 miles from Bodmin. Made famous by Daphne Du Maurier’s story of wreckers.
Bodmin is also on the Camel Trail, which is 12 miles of walking and cycling along the river Camel from Bodmin through Wadebridge and onto Padstow. Or if you want something less energetic then take the Bodmin and Wenford Steam Railway for a train ride through enchanting countryside.