A Winter Woodland Walk

12th January 2021

A Winter Woodland Walk

If you love the great outdoors then a fantastic woodland adventure awaits for the whole family at Cardinham Woods.

Located less than 20 miles of Newquay and nestled in the centre of Cornwall on the outskirts of Bodmin, this natural beauty spot has an array of activities to suit explorers of all ages.

Deep in the rich green forest there are 4 stunning walking trails. Each one a different ability and distance. 3 cycling trails for the adrenalin fix for both intermediate and advanced riders. Plus a children’s play area, dedicated picnic area, café and even a forest school. 

On a crisp January morning, we decided to go on our own adventure to explore the woods along with our favourite four legged friend and try out some of the walking trails ourselves.

Situated just off the A30 the journey to the woods is straightforward and well signposted. After parking up in the pay and display car park, we went to the large map to choose our route to adventure.

We began our stroll along the Lady Vale walk. This is the easy-going route which is wheelchair and pushchair friendly. The path is wide with a flat packed gravelled surface so doesn’t get too muddy after a rain shower. The trail follows the river upstream and offers a shortcut across the Centenary bridge for those preferring a shorter walk.

Continuing on the longer walk leads us to the Lady Vale Bridge. For the more adventurous you can take a detour route, the Wheal Glynn walk which heads to the Old Glynn Mine where silver and lead was produced until 1859. This path zig zags back down the valley to reignite the easier Lady Vale walk.

After crossing the Lady Vale bridge we took the path for the Devoick trail. A more challenging walk with a gentle climb up forest tracks. For the wildlife spotters this is the perfect place to explore the forest and its outer edges. If you are lucky enough you may even catch sight of deer. The Devoick trail offers up the most astounding views over the valley, providing the perfect backdrop for the budding photographer.  

After a steep decent we were back onto the familiar Lady Vale walk by the Lady Vale bridge. An alternative less steep route back down into the valley is also provided and leads to the same destination.

A quick dip for our furry friend in the stream and we head on back towards the car park, this time on the opposite side of the river and following it downstream.

Along all the trails there are plenty of seating spots to take a break or simply soak in the breath taking scenery. There are also picnic areas for those of you who come prepared and the Wood Café with delicious meals and snacks providing the perfect pitstop for a refuel and a bit of indulgence.

After a fabulous adventure we can't wait to come back and explore the Callywith Wood walk, where the viewpoint offers the perfect spot to view the valley of Cardinham Water and take in the fragrent scent of mature conifer trees.

Cardinham Woods is a must for all outdoor lovers and will bring out the adventure in all ages. A beautiful location that can be re-explored over and over again.

To find out more about the walking and cycling trails at Cardinham Woopds as well as the Badger Forest School sessions please visit: Cardinham Woods | Forestry England