Take a walk through Bodmin and you’ll find its streets telling stories in bold colour and striking detail and moments captured in time. A series of new murals are bringing the town’s heritage, culture and wildlife to life in unexpected places – why not take a wander and see these new additions to Bodmin’s streets?
A town in motion: Honey Street
On Honey Street, artist Jack Tierney has created a powerful mural inspired by historic photographs from the George Ellis collection, held at Kresen Kernow.
Ellis, a Bodmin-based photographer, documented life across Cornwall from the 1930s to the 1970s – and this artwork weaves together those glimpses of everyday life into a contemporary collage.
Look closely and you’ll spot moments that defined the town: Land Girls heading out to work during the Second World War, community celebrations like Beating the Bounds, sporting triumphs, agricultural shows, and performances at St Petroc’s Church.
Each image captures a piece of Bodmin’s past, reimagined to sit in its present.
Here are some of the images that informed the mural:
A cinematic past: Crockwell Street
On Crockwell Street, artist Claire Prouvost nods to Bodmin’s cultural history with a bold, cubist-inspired mural. Painted on the remaining walls of the former Palace Theatre – an art deco cinema – the piece plays with shape, colour and perspective to evoke the magic of the big screen.
The building’s original façade, long since demolished, is reimagined on the reverse side in a playful way, while stylised figures hint at the glamour and escapism of cinema’s golden age. It’s a striking tribute to a much-loved venue and a reminder of the town’s rich creative past.
Nature up close: Dennison Road Car Park
At Dennison Road Car Park, Cornwall-based street artist Koe One brings the natural world into sharp focus. His photorealistic mural features some of Cornwall’s most iconic birdlife, including the much-loved Cornish chough, alongside a buzzard and fox.
Detailed and lifelike, the artwork offers a moment to pause and admire the wildlife that surrounds Bodmin.
Together, these murals create a trail through Bodmin that invites you to explore a little more slowly. Whether you’re discovering the town for the first time or seeing familiar streets in a new light, they offer a fresh way to connect with Bodmin’s stories of the past, present and natural.
Have you spotted the new murals? What did you think?
Bodmin’s food and drink scene has been quietly building something special over the last few years. From award-winning pubs and Michelin-recognised dining to independent cafés, local producers and lively street food events, the town is becoming a place where great food feels rooted in community, creativity and Cornwall itself.
At the heart of it all is a strong sense of local pride. You’ll find chefs championing Cornish produce, family-run cafés bringing flavours from around the world to the town centre, and producers supplying restaurants and retailers across the UK.
One of the clearest signs of Bodmin’s growing reputation is the success of Fern Cornwall, just outside the town in nearby Nanstallon. Led by Michelin-trained chef Paul Welburn, the restaurant has earned recognition from the MICHELIN Guide for its modern approach to Cornish dining and focus on seasonal local ingredients. Bodmin’s independent restaurant scene continues to gather momentum too.
Flory Restaurant recently celebrated a double awards success, picking up both a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award and a Gold Award at the Taste of the West Awards, recognising its commitment to showcasing West Country produce.
The town’s pubs are also gaining national attention. The Hole in the Wall has long been one of Bodmin’s best-loved historic pubs, and in 2025 it was named CAMRA South West Pub of the Year -putting it amongst the top real ale pubs in the country.
Tucked away in The Piazza, you’ll find Native Burger, one of Bodmin’s most popular restaurants. Serving mouth-watering burgers made using local produce, they are winners of both regional and national best casual dining at the 2025 Muddy Awards.
Alongside these destination venues, Bodmin’s food culture is equally shaped by its independent cafés and everyday gathering places. The town has seen a growing number of Portuguese cafés and bakeries bringing fresh pastries, strong coffee and relaxed continental-style hospitality to Cornwall. New openings have quickly built loyal followings, adding another layer to Bodmin’s increasingly varied food scene.
Community events are helping bring everything together. Bodmin Feast – Street Food Evenings have become regular fixtures in the town calendar, filling Mount Folly with food traders, music and people gathering in the centre of town on Friday evenings. Organisers describe the events as a way to bring “great local food, community spirit, and a bit of buzz” into Bodmin.
The wider food and drink economy around Bodmin is just as important to the story. Businesses including Proper Cornish, The Cornish Company Suppliers, Harbour Brewing Co. and Camel Valley Vineyard are all helping put this part of Cornwall on the culinary map, producing and supplying food and drink enjoyed far beyond the county.
And there’s more to come. Food festivals, pop-ups and independent openings continue to grow, while events like eat:Bodmin Food Festival are helping showcase local producers and bring new visitors into the town.
Whether it’s a pint in a centuries-old pub, street food on Mount Folly, coffee and pastel de nata in a tucked-away café, or a Michelin-recognised meal in the countryside nearby, Bodmin’s food and drink scene is becoming one of the town’s most exciting stories.
With thanks to Harbour Brewery, Flory and Fern Cornwall for the photos featured in this article.
Bodmin’s Beacon is a natural haven for all – from adventuring families to native wildlife. Local residents have walked, talked and played here for at least 200 years. This granite-studded ground has hosted Cornish wrestling tournaments and wartime armies, but today the atmosphere is more tranquil. Now a nature reserve, it’s carefully tended to encourage a huge range of settled species.
Across the Beacon’s 87 acres, there’s a rich diversity of areas. You’ll find woodland, heathland and wildlife meadows, as well as a picnic field and “bird delis”: fields especially planted with crops to feed birds throughout the year. While exploring, you might also come across Bodmin’s community woodland, populated with 30,000 trees. Or, head up to the monument and marvel at its spectacular views.
Each season breathes new life and interest – dormant wildlife wakes and plant species spring into action. So, while you’re here, see what you can spot.
In spring and summer, birdsong provides the soundtrack, with many different species stopping by. An abundance of wildflowers tempts bees and butterflies, while thriving insect numbers support resident bat colonies. And, throughout the year, you’ll see pops of colour, courtesy of the Beacon’s plant life; from pink butterfly fungi and purple heather to bright yellow gorse.
Planning a visit? We’ve collected the key details to help you plan ahead.
From Fore Street car park, you can cut through the Burgage Plots. Walk along Meadow Place, up Beacon Hill and Robartes Road, and past Beacon Academy. Cross the road onto Beacon Road, and walk up to the car park entrance.
With so many routes to explore, dogs are guaranteed a good time at the Beacon. But, because there’s so much wildlife at home here, we suggest keeping them on short leads near any farm animals or nesting birds.
The reserve features graveled and tarmacked paths, but some of its most intriguing hidden corners are off the beaten track. Depending on the season, some sections can be muddy underfoot, so it’s best to be prepared with practical footwear.
One town centre – with so much to do, see and discover. So, where to start? Here, we share some of our favourite sights and stopping points.
Bodmin is a town of character and care. Its streets tell stories that stretch back centuries – from ancient landscapes to an imposing Victorian jail – while a thriving community of independent shops, cafés, and creative spaces lend it a warm, welcoming feel. Whether you’re drawn to history, invigorated by nature, or simply soaking up life in a Cornish community, there’s plenty here to fill your time.
We’ve gathered some of the top things to do in Bodmin’s thriving town centre, whether you have an hour or two to spare or a while to settle in…
Our town centre is a real treasure trove. If you’re able to stay awhile, there’s ample opportunity to explore what Bodmin has to offer.
Step back in time at Bodmin Town Museum
Pull at the threads of Bodmin’s past at the Town Museum, where local history comes to life. From ancient artifacts to Victorian treasures, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s centuries-long evolution. Allow yourself an hour or two to wander through the displays at your leisure – you’ll find tales of Bodmin’s people, trades, and traditions waiting to be told.
The museum is located on Mount Folly Square, just across from the Shire Hall.
Coffee and a browse on Fore Street
Set within Bodmin’s grand old library are intoBodmin, a local arts organisation (which also runs workshops and walks), and The Old Library Café: a laid-back space in which to meet and eat. Pop along for coffee and cake or a lunchtime treat – or, on a sunny day, sit out in the café’s community garden. Afterwards, take your time wandering along Fore Street, where the shops are dotted with unexpected finds, from vintage treasures to handcrafted goods.
To visit The Old Library, stroll along Fore Street towards Lower Bore Street.
Walk up to Bodmin Beacon Nature Reserve
If you’ve time for a climb, the reward at the top is well worth the effort. The Gilbert Monument stands proudly on Bodmin Beacon, offering sweeping views across the Cornish countryside. Once you’ve caught your breath, venture into the Bodmin Beacon Nature Reserve – a beautiful area of heathland that’s home to butterflies, birds, and wildflowers. It’s a perfect escape into nature, all within easy reach of the town.
The footpath to Gilbert Monument begins on Berry Tower Hill, off Beacon Road.
Making a little more time creates the chance to wander further, do more, and look deeper. With a half-day ahead, you can slow down and soak in your surroundings.
Visit Bodmin Jail
Rich in atmosphere and old, eerie tales, Bodmin Jail takes visitors on a journey through 200 years of crime and punishment. Self-guided tours mean you can take things at your own pace (we suggest allowing around two hours), before heading to the Moor Café for a spot of lunch. Or opt for a guided tour, peeping into some of the jail’s darkest corners with an expert storyteller.
You’ll find Bodmin Jail on Berrycombe Road, an easy walk from Fore Street.
Journey on the Bodmin Railway
Pop from town to countryside in a surprisingly short time – a ride on Bodmin Railway transports you through some of the area’s most scenic spots. Spend an afternoon steaming along its historic railway line, pulled by a vintage engine. A circular ticket will take you from the nearby Bodmin General station, along two branch lines and back home again, with short stops on the way.
Your starting station for Bodmin Railway is a 10-15-minute walk from the town centre, on Harleigh Road.
Join a workshop at Bodmin Gallery & Creative Studio
Keen to try something different? At Bodmin Gallery & Creative Studio, you can stretch your skills in a welcoming, friendly environment. The studio runs a number of half-day and full-day workshops throughout the year – these vary depending on the season or series, so we suggest checking and booking in advance. Past and current sessions have included activities like willow weaving, nature drawing and silverwork.
Workshops are based at the gallery, on Bodmin’s Fore Street.
Get hands-on at Discovering42
Tap into the joy of discovery at Cornwall’s innovative (and award-winning) art, science and sustainability museum. Here, there’s every chance to get stuck in as you play, test and experiment. Fusing subjects like chemistry and physics with craft activities and environmental awareness, a visit will stretch your imagination in new and interesting ways.
For those carefree days when you’ve got time in hand, combine some of the above to curate a full day out. For instance, Bodmin Jail and Bodmin Railway are conveniently close together, creating a living history tour of the town. Or make lunch at The Old Library Café your reward for climbing the Beacon. However you mix and match, Bodmin will make the most of your time.
To mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, Bodmin Keep – Cornwall’s Army Museum in partnership with Experience Bodmin, Bodmin Town Council and Bodmin Jail, is proud to announce the launch of the VE80 Photography Trail, a town-wide exhibition that brings to life Bodmin’s powerful wartime legacy through the lens of celebrated photographer George Ellis.
The VE80 Photography Trail showcases a curated selection of wartime images taken by Ellis, a London-born freelance press photographer who moved to Bodmin in 1939. The trail also includes a wedding photo taken by Alan Date – a chemist who owned a pharmacy on Honey Street in the 1930s and 40s – who like Ellis, captured many photographs of wartime Bodmin.
Known for his evocative and human-centred photography, Ellis documented life on the Home Front, including Land Girls, evacuee children, and the daily interactions between locals and the British, Commonwealth, and American troops stationed in town.
Once a thriving garrison town, Bodmin played a key role in the UK’s Second World War efforts. From 1939, over 2,000 troops were housed and trained at Bodmin Keep, Walker Lines, and Coldharbour Farm. In 1943, Bodmin Keep was handed over to the US 29th Infantry Division as American GIs prepared for the D-Day landings.
Each photograph in the trail is displayed where it was originally taken, offering a unique “then and now” experience and inviting reflection on how the community — and its resilience — have evolved over time.
The trail will run until Remembrance Sunday, reinforcing the town’s long-standing commitment to honouring service and sacrifice.
Councillor Leigh Frost, Cornwall Councillor Leader and local member for Bodmin St Petroc, said: “The trail is a great addition to Bodmin and offers a new to way explore the town through a different lens. Residents and visitors alike will be able to discover and learn more about the town’s history.”
Helen Bishop-Stephens, Director of Bodmin Keep-Cornwall’s Army Museum, said: “This project reminds us of the vibrancy and diversity of wartime Bodmin. It highlights the contributions of so many — including pioneering Black American GIs and local women in uniform — and we hope it inspires pride and renewed interest in our town’s extraordinary past. This is particularly poignant as right now Cornwall’s Army Museum, housed at Bodmin Keep, is closed and fighting to secure its future. Without the museum, this and countless other stories about Cornwall’s Army history will be lost.”
The entire George Ellis collection, comprising over 90,000 images, is held at Kresen Kernow.
The trail has been possible thanks to the Experience project, run by Cornwall Council, which received funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme.
The Experience project aims to enhance visitors’ experience and support local businesses. The project in Bodmin focuses on boosting tourism and economic growth, by promoting unique and sustainable cultural and low-carbon experiences.
Key partners in the town – including the Town Council and major venues and attractions in Bodmin – are collaborating with Experience to develop a marketing campaign for the town, helping to raise awareness of Bodmin as an important destination in its own right.
For full information on the V80 Photography Trail, go to: VE80 Photography Trail – Bodmin Keep: Cornwall’s Army Museum.
