The Camel Trail

The Camel Trail is a flat, traffic-free cycling and walking path that follows the old railway line along the Camel Estuary from Padstow to Bodmin, covering about 18 miles through some of the most beautiful scenery in Cornwall. The section from Padstow to Wadebridge hugs the estuary — at low tide, herons fish on the mudflats and the light on the water is gorgeous. The Wadebridge to Bodmin section follows the river through ancient woodland. Bike hire is available in Padstow, Wadebridge, and Bodmin — you can do the whole trail in a day or just do the Padstow to Wadebridge section (about 5.5 miles each way) and stop for lunch in Wadebridge. The trail is flat and easy enough for children and casual cyclists. The surface is compacted stone, so hybrid or mountain bikes work better than road bikes. The trail is hugely popular in summer — go early or mid-week if you want to avoid the crowds. There are pubs and cafés along the route. The birdwatching is excellent along the estuary section, especially in winter. It's one of the best family cycling routes in the country — genuinely enjoyable rather than just tolerable.