the classic guide

A guide to the West Country from the people that know…

The Camel Trail

The Camel Trail is a 19 mile route that follows the beautiful Camel River from Padstow, where it joins the sea in a wide estuary, to Poley’s Bridge inland, where it is merely a stream running through woodland. En-route at Nanstallon you will also find the Camel Trail Tea Rooms. Bikes are for hire from either Padstow or Wadebridge and it's a brilliant area for bird watching. Visit Wenfordbridge in spring and delight in the profusion of daffodils, snowdrops and primroses.

5 Stars

Oct 2021

Atlantic Coast Express Buffet Car

The Camel Trail is brilliant for cycling or walking but whatever you are doing, make sure you stop by the Atlantic Coast Express Buffet Car, which is located by an old quarry site, halfway between Padstow and Wadebridge. The owners have lovingly converted an old railway carriage into a brilliant buffet stop. The best coffee, cakes, ice cream and other snacks you'll ever have! Not open Fridays - but everyone needs a day off!

  • Helpful To You?
  • Yes /
  • No
5 Stars

Jul 2021

Good cycling by the river

Bodmin to Wadebridge leafy and easy to travel on dedicated path. Access to Camel valley vineyard. Have to use bike lanes on roads to cross Wadebridge. Several bike hire spots in Wadebridge, cycle path to Padstow is much busier and needs more care. Couple of coffee stops on trail nearer Padstow.

  • Helpful To You?
  • Yes /
  • No
5 Stars

Apr 2012

Wadebridge to Padstow

The Wadebridge to Padstow section of the trail is about 6 miles. Whilst you can hire bikes easily in Wadebridge the largely flat walk, which would be possible with a pushchair, makes a lovely walk. New views open up as the Camel twists and turns and the slower pace means you can spot the wildlife en route. Set off after breakfast and you will be in Padstow for lunch. A bus to Wadebrdge leaves Padstow from the old railway station on the half hour and will take you back in about 20 minutes.

1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
  • Helpful To You?
  • Yes /
  • No
5 Stars

Aug 2011

Wonderful off road cycling venue, undisturbed with beautiful views and mostly flat easy cycling.

  • Helpful To You?
  • Yes /
  • No
5 Stars

Aug 2011

Tranquil Trail

The four mile Helland to Bodmin section of the Camel Trail is much quieter than the Wadebridge to Padstow section. Park for free at Helland and follow the trail through peaceful woodland catching tantalising glimpses of the river through the canopy of trees. Wildlife abounds in this tranquil spot. Before leaving Helland go and have a look at the medieval Helland Bridge which spans the upper reaches of the River Camel.

  • Helpful To You?
  • Yes /
  • No
5 Stars

Aug 2008

The Camel Trail

The trail is best explored from the Pooley Bridge end which is just 2 1/2 miles from daydream cottage. Shell woods are great in the autumn and cool and shaded during the summer. Wonderful for picnics by the fast flowing river.

  • Helpful To You?
  • Yes /
  • No

This website uses cookies to store information on your computer. For more information visit our privacy page OK