At the heart of the town’s contemporary music scene is The BEAT (Bosvena Events,Art and Theatre), a dedicated live performance venue that has become a cornerstone of local entertainment. Hosting everything from emerging Cornish talent and tribute acts to theatre productions and community events, The BEAT provides a platform for musicians of all genres. Recent programmes have featured reggae, rock, soul, punk, jazz and acoustic performances, helping to showcase the breadth of talent across Cornwall.
The venue has become a key supporter of grassroots artists, regularly offering local bands and solo performers the chance to perform in front of enthusiastic audiences.
Click here to find out what’s coming up.
For a completely different musical experience, St Petroc’s Sessions offers live performances in one of Cornwall’s most atmospheric venues. Held within the stunning surroundings of St Petroc’s Church, the sessions have attracted nationally renowned artists alongside celebrated folk, spoken word and contemporary performers since launching in 2017.
The unique setting creates an intimate connection between audience and artist, making every performance something special. Previous acts have included Fairport Convention, The Unthanks, This Is The Kit and many more.
Click here to find out what’s coming up.
Just outside Bodmin, Lavethan offers another jewel in the local music landscape. Set in a beautiful historic manor house near Blisland, its restored concert barn hosts an impressive programme of classical, folk and jazz performances. The intimate venue allows audiences to enjoy world-class musicians in a unique rural setting.
Alongside concerts, Lavethan frequently hosts courses and retreats, creative workshops, festivals and cultural events, making it a valuable addition to Bodmin Moor’s artistic community.
Visit their What’s On Page.
No thriving music scene would be complete without its pubs, and Bodmin is fortunate to have several venues that regularly welcome live performers.
In Higher Bore Street, just beyond Bodmin town centre, The Masons Arms has built a strong reputation for live music, combining great food, local ales and regular performances throughout the year. From acoustic evenings and folk acts to lively weekend gigs, it’s a favourite gathering place for music fans.
Bodmin’s music scene extends beyond traditional venues through festivals and seasonal celebrations. A standout event on the local cultural calendar is Music on the Moor, a multi-arts festival that brings together music, poetry, visual arts and literature in unique venues across Bodmin Moor. Featuring internationally acclaimed performers alongside local talent, the festival showcases everything from classical and folk music to creative workshops and family-friendly events, helping to celebrate the rich cultural landscape of inland Cornwall.
Another highlight is the music and community events associated with Haywood Farm Cider in nearby St Mabyn. These popular gatherings combine live music with local food, drink and a welcoming atmosphere, attracting performers, cider enthusiasts and visitors from across the region. Regular gigs and special events have helped establish Haywood Farm as a unique venue within the wider Bodmin music scene.
Together, these events showcase the strong community spirit that underpins Bodmin’s music culture, creating opportunities for musicians and audiences to connect in relaxed, memorable settings while supporting the area’s growing reputation as a destination for live music and the arts.
Alongside Bodmin’s contemporary live music venues, the town is also home to the renowned Bodmin Town Band, one of Cornwall’s leading brass bands. With a proud history and a reputation for musical excellence, the band regularly performs at concerts, community events and competitions, helping to keep Cornwall’s rich brass band tradition alive. Their performances are a fantastic example of the diverse musical opportunities available in and around Bodmin, offering audiences everything from traditional brass repertoire to modern arrangements.
As Bodmin’s music scene continues to evolve, it’s important to remember the people who helped put the town on Cornwall’s musical map. Perhaps the most famous musician to come from Bodmin is Al Hodge (1950-2006), a talented guitarist, singer and songwriter who went on to become one of Cornwall’s best-known rock musicians. Starting his musical journey in local bands, Al built a successful career performing across the UK and internationally, working with renowned artists and writing music that reached audiences around the world. Among his many achievements was co-writing the hit song Rock ‘n’ Roll Mercenaries, recorded by Meat Loaf and John Parr.
Today, his legacy continues to inspire musicians across Cornwall and remains an important part of Bodmin’s musical story.
Keeping Al Hodge’s musical spirit alive, in 2007 Al’s son Luke launched Alstock Festival also thanks to the support of the local community. Created in memory of his father, the festival quickly became a cherished part of the town’s summer calendar, bringing people together through live music while raising significant funds for local charities and community projects. With the 2026 event expected to be its final edition, Alstock leaves behind a lasting legacy of music, generosity and community spirit that has helped shape Bodmin’s cultural life for nearly two decades.
With thanks to The Beat, Lavethan and Emma Mac Photography for the photos featured in this article.
From luxury hotels and country estates to family-friendly farm stays, cosy inns and glamping in the beautiful surroundings, the area offers something for every type of visitor.
One of the advantages of staying in and around Bodmin is location. Sitting at the heart of Cornwall, the area provides easy access to both coasts, the Camel Trail, Bodmin Moor, picturesque villages and many of Cornwall’s best-loved attractions. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family holiday or a peaceful countryside retreat, there is a place to stay that fits the experience you’re looking for.
For those seeking a touch of luxury, several standout accommodation options are helping to put Bodmin on the map. . The Bodmin Jail Hotel has transformed part of the town’s historic prison into one of Cornwall’s most distinctive boutique hotels, combining fascinating heritage with contemporary comfort in a truly memorable setting. Nearby, Lanhydrock Hotel & Golf Club offers stylish accommodation in a peaceful countryside location, complete with views across its renowned championship golf course. Meanwhile, Boconnion offers beautifully appointed luxury holiday cottages within a private estate on the edge of Bodmin Moor. Also renowned as a unique wedding and events venue, it provides guests with space, seclusion and an opportunity to experience Cornwall’s countryside at its finest.
For those seeking the flexibility of self-catering accommodation, there are plenty of options to suit a range of tastes and budgets. Among them is Lavethan, which combines elegant accommodation with the character and charm of a historic Cornish estate.
Family holidays have long been part of Bodmin’s tourism story, and several accommodation providers offer experiences that are about much more than just a place to stay. Coombe Meadow gives families the chance to enjoy luxury lodges alongside wildlife spotting and farm animal encounters, creating memorable experiences for children and adults alike. Meanwhile, Hallagenna Farm Holiday Cottages offer spacious self-catering accommodation in a peaceful countryside setting, with opportunities for outdoor adventures, farm experiences and even riding holidays.
For visitors looking to slow down and embrace rural Cornwall, there are plenty of peaceful retreats to discover. Trehellas House Hotel remains a popular countryside base, while St Tudy Inn combines boutique accommodation with excellent food in one of Cornwall’s most attractive villages. Nearby, Trenewth Farm offers a tranquil escape surrounded by rolling countryside and open space.
The area’s connection to nature also makes it a fantastic destination for camping and glamping. Mena Farm has built a reputation as one of North Cornwall’s most popular camping, touring and glamping destinations, welcoming families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. For a more off-grid experience, South Penquite Farm offers camping, yurts and quirky accommodation in the heart of Bodmin Moor, where dark skies, wide-open landscapes and direct access to walking trails create an unforgettable stay.
What connects all these places is a sense of authenticity. Whether it’s a luxury suite in a historic landmark, a cottage on a working farm, a room above an award-winning village inn or a yurt overlooking the moor, the accommodation around Bodmin offers visitors the chance to experience Cornwall in a way that feels personal and connected to the landscape.
As more visitors discover everything Bodmin has to offer, the area’s accommodation providers continue to play an important role in showcasing the very best of Cornwall.
Whatever your budget, style or reason for visiting, you’ll find there’s more than one way to stay in the heart of Cornwall!
With thanks to the Bodmin Jail Hotel and Lavethan for the photos featured in this article.
Bodmin’s wonderful variety of landscapes – from historic sites to vast natural spaces – make it the perfect place for childhood discoveries. Here, the active and adventurous can get stuck-in, let off steam, and learn by doing.
In Bodmin, no two days are the same – there’s always a fresh find or new excitement to share. If you’re visiting as a family, this is a place where kids come into their own as they stride out, unearth new experiences, and lean into their natural curiosity. Here, we’ve collected some of our recommended family days out in Bodmin, but there’s also so much more to discover. If you’re looking for extra inspiration, we recommend taking time to check out local events, investigate the area, and head off the beaten track.
Lanhydrock
Now owned by the National Trust, Lanhydrock was once a grand home for generations of the Robartes family. Yet this historic site is anything but stuffy: there’s a huge amount here especially for kids, both in the house and surrounding it. In the mansion, the original nursery wing has been opened up for interactive fun. Children can dress up (as the Robartes children loved to do), ride the rocking horse, and play traditional board games. And, out in the wider estate, you’re free to let off steam in the parkland play area and cycle trails.
Priory Park
If you’re spending a day in town, following our family trail, or looking for free things to do, make a pitstop at Priory Park. The largest area of green space in Bodmin’s centre, the park is here for everyone. A children’s playground, buggy-friendly paths, a duck pond, and picnic areas – as well as essentials like toilets and baby changing facilities – mean you can easily while away an hour or two.
Discovering42
Children can be life’s most curious and creative thinkers. For budding scientists, makers and environmentalists, a trip to Discovering42 is sure to nurture the spark. Here, kids can dive in – hands-first – with a whole host of interactive, touchy-feely topics, from physics and engineering to intuitive crafts. And, after all that, you can head off to the museum’s café, ready to whip up your own “magic mocktails”.
Bodmin Railway
If you’re out to uncover new experiences, Bodmin Railway is a uniquely memorable way to explore. Children will love the chance to ride in vintage carriages, spot the steaming engine, and wave at passers-by as they whip through the countryside. The journey takes you through miles of Cornish scenery, with options for various themed events throughout the year. It’s a brilliant trip for trainspotters of all ages, while the shorter routes are perfect for younger passengers with smaller attention spans.
Camel Trail
Meandering along for more than 18 miles, the Camel Trail creates the rare chance for children (and parents) to roam in confidence. Outside of its main towns, the trail is entirely car-free, so younger walkers can stroll safely, while its flat surface makes it perfect for family cycle rides. Pick up the route here in Bodmin from Scarletts Well Road, heading along the main pathway towards Padstow, or out in the direction of Wenford Bridge. With younger children, it’s probably best to tackle just one leg of the tour (such as Bodmin to Wadebridge), although you’ll also find cafes for rest points along the way.
Cardinham Woods
Just ten minutes outside Bodmin, Cardinham Woods is a popular family destination. If you’re off for a walk, the best route for little ones and pushchairs is around Lady Vale, which follows the river upstream. If your children are older or more confident, there are also downloadable cycle trails available (or follow the coloured trail markers around the woods). Or, you might prefer to let the kids lead – curious explorers can look out for Gruffalo sculptures and resident wildlife. For a small charge, you can also hire a Forest Activity Bag from the Ranger’s Hut.
Super Tramp
If the weather takes a turn (or the kids just have energy to spare), Super Tramp could be the answer. This indoor trampoline park is designed for freedom: jumping, flipping, and bouncing in a safe environment. There are dedicated sessions for different age groups, including toddler times, so even the littlest bouncers can join in. Foam pits, dodgeball courts and obstacle courses all add to the fun and frolics.
Bodmin Beacon Nature Reserve
For an adventure closer to nature, head to the Bodmin Beacon Nature Reserve. This peaceful spot offers gentle walking trails with far-reaching views across Bodmin Moor and beyond. It’s an excellent place for wildlife spotting, so keep your eyes peeled for butterflies, birds, and (later in the day) bats. The paths are manageable for most ages, though pushchairs might struggle on some of the rougher sections. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it, letting the children amble at their own pace.
Vast and rugged, Bodmin Moor is one of Cornwall’s greatest natural wonders. This landscape of granite-peaked grass and heather is an endless source of inspiration and activity.
Bodmin Moor claims the largest section of the Cornwall National Landscape, a patchwork of areas known for their outstanding natural beauty. It’s a place of wild variety, with towering granite tors, hidden marshland valleys, and miles of immense moorland.
Here, it’s easy to gain perspective. On Bodmin Moor, you can climb Cornwall’s highest point, Brown Willy, which offers spectacular panoramic views as a reward to those who reach the top. Centuries fold back as you roam among neolithic monuments and medieval settlements. And at night, in this designated you can discover the ideal arena for stargazing.
Rising from the bedrock of Bodmin Moor, Rough Tor and Brown Willy are its two highest peaks. Set out with sturdy footwear to conquer one or both – they’re nicely close together, making this a good half-day exploration (around five miles) if you build in picnic stops at the summits.
With a history stretching all the way back to neolithic times, The Hurlers encompass three of the southwest’s most notable stone circles. Their story is curious and legendary: in folklore, the stones are said to be local people punished for playing the game of hurling on a Sunday.
At over 700 acres, this nature reserve managed by Cornwall Wildlife Trust is home to a complex mosaic of habitats, including heathland, mire, scrubland, bog, ancient woodland, wet woodland, and acid grassland. Explore this rugged landscape by following the 8-mile (13 km) wilderness trail around the heart of the reserve.
Lying deep in the age of myth and mysticism, Dozmary Pool has long-standing associations with King Arthur, Excalibur and the Lady of the Lake. Other tales describe the punishment of poor Jan Tregeagle, doomed to eternally empty the pool with a limpet shell.
The Cheesewring crowns Stowes Hill on the moor’s south side. It was once described by writer Wilkie Collins as “a great pile of stones”, and he was right – but it’s entirely natural in origin. Its stack-like appearance was created by erosion, and named after the process of pressing apples into “cheeses”.
Bodmin Moor enfolds wide areas of land peppered with hamlets, villages and towns – rich in potential for pub lunches and café pit-stops. Historic Jamaica Inn sits high on the moor, making it a natural waypoint for weary wanderers. And, if you’re off in the direction of Cardinham Woods, the Woods Café is a tranquil hidden gem.
Bodmin Moor is a rough, rugged landscape, with areas that are exposed to the elements and wet underfoot. To be ready for anything, we suggest packing sensible footwear, a water bottle, and either waterproof coats or sun cream and hats (depending on the season).
It’s easily reached by car on the A30, which cuts across the moor itself. If you’re travelling by public transport, the nearest train stations are Bodmin Parkway and Liskeard. From there, local bus services run to villages around the moor, though services can be infrequent, so it’s worth checking timetables in advance. If you’re driving, you’ll find several car parks dotted around at popular spots like Jamaica Inn and Minions.