Strange, tragic, and gory, there’s a darker side to Bodmin’s story. Where the walls hold memories and mist creeps over the moor, there’s a thrill to be found by digging deeper.
From ghostly footfalls to legendary beasts, Bodmin has some wild tales to tell. These dark histories cast an intriguing shadow on local landmarks. Beneath the stones and behind the doors of our imposing buildings, you’ll find secrets lurking. The eerie and uncanny are just another dimension of Bodmin’s character.
This place has stood through centuries of change and conflict, from the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the Civil War, to famous trials and public executions. So, it’s no surprise that Bodmin is reportedly home to some of Cornwall’s most haunted locations.
In one day (and maybe even a night), you can take in a cluster of notorious spots. Whether you believe in ghosts or prefer to stay sceptical, these places conjure atmospheric and evocative stories of Bodmin’s past. A walk to the Shire Hall on Mount Folly Square will take you to the site of the town’s most infamous courtroom dramas. Here, in 1844, local farm worker Matthew Weekes was accused of killing 18-year-old Charlotte Dymond on Bodmin Moor. The crime, and the trial held in this building, prompted a surge of public interest, which reached its peak when Weekes was found guilty and sentenced to death. You can follow his fatal route by walking from the former court to nearby Bodmin Jail, where Weekes was taken to be imprisoned and hanged. A memorial to Charlotte Dymond now stands on the edge of Roughtor, on Bodmin Moor.
Today, the ghost of Matthew Weekes is rumoured to reside in Bodmin Jail, protesting his innocence. But he’s certainly not the only one. The site’s troubled past saw many people arrive, destined never to leave. They include Sarah Polgrean, who murdered her husband with arsenic, and the highway robbers-turned-killers James and William
Lightfoot. In fact, the jail is considered so haunted that you can join dedicated ghost experiences – including lantern-lit storytelling tours and overnight paranormal investigations.
Further afield, at Lanhydrock, resident ghosts are said to include a lady dressed in grey, who has been seen in the long gallery – one of the only parts of the original 17th century house to survive a disastrous fire. And, if you smell cigars in the smoking room, there’s a chance this has a spectral source. Others have reported the same scent over the years, too.
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For centuries, the vast and lonely expanse of Bodmin Moor has captivated storytellers. It was here, during her twenties, that the author Daphne du Maurier became hopelessly lost while exploring with a friend. She’d later write that ‘In a moment all was desolation.’ They sheltered from the rain in an abandoned cottage, crossed a ghostly railway line (which she’d never be able to find again), and let their horses eventually lead them towards the ‘gaunt chimneys’ of Jamaica Inn. The eerie memory sparked the creation of her future novel, also named Jamaica Inn, years later.
But du Maurier wasn’t the only figure to wander through this place. People have lived and worked on the moor since prehistoric times, leaving their traces in stone circles and long-sealed tombs. Trethevy Quoit, for instance, was constructed to house remains during the Neolithic period. The naming of King Arthur’s Hall, an ancient ceremonial site, hints at the figure of this legendary king stalking the moors. According to stories, nearby Dozmary Pool is where his sword, Excalibur, was returned to the Lady of the Lake.
Dozmary Pool is also associated with another Cornish ghost story – the tale of Jan Tregeagle. Versions vary, but it’s popularly told that in the 17th century, Tregeagle pursued a dark path, bargaining away his soul in a pact with the Devil. After his death, he was condemned to empty the waters of Dozmary Pool with a limpet shell – a task that causes such misery, he haunts the moor for eternity. Other shadowy figures include a White Lady, said to wander through the moorland village of Altarnun, and the ghostly spirit of a druid who offers drinks from a golden cup near Rillaton Barrow.
However, it’s not just ghosts that are linked to the landscape here. During the 1990s, the British Government officially investigated sightings of “the Beast of Bodmin Moor”. This large, black, panther-like animal may be the stuff of legend, but some believe it really is a species of wild cat, or an escaped or released creature that lived on the moor. Others point to a paranormal explanation, like a phantom cat. The nineties investigation didn’t find any concrete proof of the so-called beast’s existence – but neither could it rule it out.
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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.