Bodmin Moor AONB

About Bodmin Moor AONB

Bodmin Moor is a section of protected land covering just over one fifth of the wider Cornwall AONB. Situated in north east Cornwall, it is roughly 21,000 ha (80 mi2) of open and enclosed moorland, peat bog and granite tors. Most of the moor is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The highest points here are Brown Willy, at 417 m (1,368 ft) and Rough Tor, at 400 m (1,300 ft).

Climate

The moor is very exposed and can be damp, cold and bleak even in summer.

Fauna and Flora

There is much to see here, but some highlights include the hardy sheep, cattle and wild Bodmin Moor ponies that graze the moor.  The Rivers Camel and De Lank are important strongholds in Britain for the European otter; while the moor is also an internationally important bird area for its breeding pairs of European Stonechats and wintering population of Eurasian Golden Plovers.

Activities

The Cheesewring quarry above Minions is a magnet for walkers and climbers. This smooth granite suits a range of abilities with climbs at a variety of grades (including 12 traditional and 6 sport routes), but can be off-putting in wet weather when the rocks become unpleasantly greasy and slippery. Coarse and trout fishing, walking and cycling are all well catered for on Bodmin Moor.

Warnings

All of Bodmin Moor is privately owned and it’s a working area with over 500 holdings. While much land is now designated as Open Access under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, check your map to avoid trouble. The moor is very exposed to the elements and there is little shelter, so come prepared.

Did you know?

Dozmary Pool (about 15 km northeast of the town of Bodmin) is alleged to be the lake into which Sir Bedivere threw Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake in Arthurian legend.