Created by 3GoExploring.
On a sunny day you can’t beat a long hike or gentle cycle, so we decided to complete the Camel Trail.
When planning the walk we decided not to walk the entire length but split into three sections over three days. Although increasing the total length of the walk it gave us the ability to utilise car parking close to amenities if required. When planning outdoor activities the location of amenities is essential, given the unpredictable nature of our daughters' medical conditions.
The Camel Trail is a 18.3 mile permissive path in Cornwall that runs from Padstow to Wenford Bridge. An extremely popular recreational path frequented by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The path is relatively flat and allows for traffic free enjoyment, however please remember this is a shared path so listen out for bell rings on bikes.
The path follows the track bed of two historic rail lines of the North Cornwall Railway and the Bodmin and Wadebridge Railway. The line was originally used to carry lime-rich sand from the Camel Estuary for inland farms to be used as fertiliser. Later the line was used to ship china clay and slate from inland quarries to ships in Padstow and transport fish back inland. The lines were also used as passenger services, frequently used by holiday makers and locals who would travel to Wadebridge. Like much of the British Rail network the decline in the 1960s saw the closures of the three main stations with the last passenger train running in 1967. The trackbed was converted to a public trail in 1980 by Cornwall County Council.
There is parking available at the trail heads in Padstow and Wenford Bridge, also ample parking is located at Dunmere Bodmin with a lovely Pub.
We loved the walk and the weather was glorious, so why not get out there and enjoy this trail, you won’t be disappointed.
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