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Bodmin Moor AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) adventures

Bodmin Moor AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) Adventures

Bodmin Moor AONB is a rugged expanse of granite moorland in Cornwall, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and abundant outdoor activities including hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring ancient archaeological sites.

51,400
Acres Protected
Over 100
Miles of Trails
Estimated 300,000+
Annual Visitors
1959
Year Established

About Bodmin Moor AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)

 

Bodmin Moor AONB, located in northeast Cornwall, England, covers approximately 208 square kilometers of open granite moorland characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and scattered tors. The moor rises to Brown Willy, the highest point in Cornwall at 420 meters. The landscape supports a variety of heathland habitats, bogs, and grasslands with unique flora such as heather, gorse, and bilberry. Bodmin Moor features archaeological relics from the Neolithic and Bronze Age eras, including stone circles, cairns, and ancient hut circles that capture the long human history in the region. The area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts with bird species such as skylarks, corn buntings, and buzzards commonly sighted. Recreational opportunities include extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, horseback riding, and exploring historic villages on the moor’s periphery. Notable landmarks include the famous Cheesewring rock formation, Jamaica Inn—known from Daphne du Maurier's novel—and Dozmary Pool, linked to Arthurian legend. Visitors are drawn by the open, wild character of the moor and the panoramic views it offers across Cornwall’s countryside. The landscape’s openness allows for star gazing and photography, especially in less light-polluted areas. Managed for conservation, Bodmin Moor AONB balances access with protection to preserve its natural and cultural assets for future generations.

Highlights

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Brown Willy, the highest point in Cornwall with panoramic summit views

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Cheesewring, an extraordinary natural granite rock formation

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Jamaica Inn, a historic coaching inn famous for smuggling history and literary connections

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Dozmary Pool, Cornwall’s legendary lake linked to the tale of King Arthur

Notable Natural Features

Brown Willy

At 420 meters, it is the highest point in Cornwall offering wide-reaching views over the moor and adjoining valleys.

Cheesewring

A striking stack of weathered granite slabs balanced dramatically, formed through millennia of erosion.

Jamaica Inn

An iconic coaching inn on Bodmin Moor steeped in history and infamous for smuggling, inspiring Daphne du Maurier's novel.