Local Area · The Camel Trail
The Camel Trail, flat and traffic-free
Walk or cycle one of Cornwall's best-loved routes — an easy, level ride along the Camel Estuary from Padstow, minutes from the park.
An easy day out
Cornwall’s most popular cycling trail
The Camel Trail runs for around eighteen miles along the route of a disused railway line, linking Padstow, Wadebridge, Bodmin and Wenfordbridge. Because it follows the old track bed it’s almost entirely flat and traffic-free — which makes it one of the friendliest family walking and cycling routes in the South West, just as good for a first ride with the children as for a longer day in the saddle.
For much of its length the trail traces the broad, tidal Camel Estuary, then turns inland to follow the wooded valley of the River Camel up towards Bodmin Moor. With bike hire at both Padstow and Wadebridge, you can ride as far as you like and turn back whenever you please — and you’re only a short drive from the Padstow end.
Along the route
Three stretches, one trail
The trail divides naturally into three sections — pick a short, scenic stretch or string them together for a full day out.
Padstow to Wadebridge
About 5½ miles
The most popular and most scenic stretch, hugging the broad Camel Estuary the whole way. It's flat, well-surfaced and almost entirely traffic-free, with wide water views, wading birds on the mudflats and plenty of spots to stop. The easiest first ride or walk for families.
- Estuary views
- Flattest stretch
- Family favourite
Wadebridge to Bodmin
About 5¾ miles
From the market town of Wadebridge the trail leaves the estuary and follows the wooded valley of the River Camel inland, shaded and gently rolling but still level underfoot. A peaceful, leafy contrast to the open estuary.
- Riverside woodland
- Quieter
- Shaded
Bodmin to Wenfordbridge
About 6¼ miles
The final, quietest section climbs gently up the Camel valley towards the edge of Bodmin Moor, finishing near Wenfordbridge. The least busy part of the trail and a good route for anyone wanting a longer, more remote day out.
- Towards Bodmin Moor
- Most remote
- Longer day out
Most riders start at the Padstow trailhead and head up the estuary towards Wadebridge — the flattest, most scenic stretch and an easy out-and-back at any distance. The full distances above are approximate; check local signage for the exact mileage on the day.
Before you set off
Good to know
A few practical notes to help you make the most of a day on the Camel Trail.
Hiring bikes
Bike-hire shops cluster around the trailheads in Padstow and Wadebridge, with bikes to suit all ages — including child seats, tag-alongs and trailers. Pick up wheels at one end and ride out as far as you fancy.
Flat and traffic-free
Because the trail follows a former railway line, gradients are gentle and the surface is firm and level — ideal for young children, less confident cyclists and pushchairs alike.
Estuary wildlife
The Camel Estuary is rich in birdlife, especially at low tide when herons, egrets, curlews and oystercatchers feed on the exposed mudflats. Bring binoculars for the Padstow-to-Wadebridge stretch.
Refreshments along the way
Padstow and Wadebridge sit at either end with cafés, pubs and shops, and there are seasonal refreshment stops along the route — so it's easy to break a longer ride with a Cornish cream tea.
Make a day of it
Start in Padstow, finish with a cream tea
The Padstow end of the trail spills straight into the working harbour, so it’s easy to pair a ride with a wander round the quay, a fish-and-chip supper or a Cornish cream tea before heading back. Leave the car at the park and you can be on the estuary path in minutes.
If you’d rather stay on foot, the coast and countryside around Atlantic Bays are laced with footpaths and stretches of the South West Coast Path.
Stay here to explore
Ride the Camel Trail from your doorstep
Base yourself at Atlantic Bays and the Padstow trailhead is just a short drive away — in a lodge, a cabin or your own pitch. Check live availability for your dates, or call the team and they’ll help you find the right stay.