Camelford, Cornwall

Town Guide and Visitor Information

Camelford is a historic market town in North Cornwall, set between Bodmin Moor and the north coast. Its central location makes it a useful base for exploring the moor, Tintagel, Trebarwith Strand and the surrounding countryside.

The town centre has independent shops, places to eat and useful local services, while walks, leisure facilities and open countryside are all within easy reach.

Camelford Town Centre and Shops

Camelford has a compact town centre with a mixture of independent shops, food and drink businesses and everyday services. It is a quieter alternative to some of the larger coastal towns and a useful stopping point when exploring North Cornwall.

For current local business listings, visit the Visit Camelford website.

Things to Do in Camelford

Camelford Leisure Centre has a heated indoor swimming pool, sports hall, fitness suite and a programme of classes and family activities.

Walking Around Camelford

Camelford is well placed for walking on Bodmin Moor and around the town itself. Local routes include the Watermill Walk, the Three Churches Walk and the Camelford Town Trail.

Rough Tor and Brown Willy, Cornwall’s two highest points, are also within easy reach. Further south on Bodmin Moor, Jamaica Inn is closely associated with Daphne du Maurier’s novel of the same name.

Route information is available from Visit Camelford.

Camelford History and Heritage

Camelford developed as a market town around a crossing point on the River Camel. Historic buildings and streets remain throughout the town, reflecting its long role as a centre for the surrounding rural area.

Camelford and nearby Slaughterbridge have also been associated with Arthurian legends for centuries. Local tradition links the area with the final battle between Arthur and Mordred, although these stories remain legend rather than established history.

Camelford Events

Secrets of the Hidden Realm

Saturday 21st November 2026 at Camelford Hall. Squashbox Theatre brings Cornish folklore, storytelling, comedy and puppetry together in a show for adults and older children aged 10 and over.

Organising an event in or around Camelford? Send us the details for possible inclusion in the Eye on Cornwall events diary.

Camelford Accommodation

Camelford and the surrounding area offer a range of places to stay, including B&Bs, self-catering properties, hotels, campsites and touring caravan parks.

Places to Eat and Local Activities

Camelford has cafés, pubs, takeaway food and independent food shops in and around the town centre. Outdoor activities nearby include walking, cycling, horse riding and exploring Bodmin Moor.

Camelford Agricultural Show

Held each August, Camelford Agricultural Show has been part of local life since 1906. The traditional one-day show celebrates farming and rural life with livestock and horse classes, vintage vehicles, a dog show, local food, trade stands and family entertainment.

View a larger map of Camelford

Camelford Beach and Surf Guide

Although Camelford is inland, the north coast is only a few miles away. Trebarwith Strand is the nearest beach and is popular for surfing, swimming and coastal walks.

Trebarwith Strand

Trebarwith Strand has a dramatic setting beneath high cliffs. At low tide, the sandy beach provides space for surfing, swimming and walking, while the surrounding clifftop paths offer far-reaching coastal views.

Travel Information

Camelford lies on the A39, with road connections towards Bude, Wadebridge and the wider North Cornwall coast. Bus services operate through the town and taxis are also available.