Penhargard Castle

The ruins of Penhargard Castle sit on high moorland just outside Bodmin, and honestly, they're more atmospheric than imposing. What remains is a sparse scatter of stone foundations and broken walls - enough to make out the shape of the medieval fortress, but you won't find intact towers or dramatic ramparts here. It's the kind of place where your imagination does most of the work.

The walk up is proper rewarding though. You're on open moorland with views stretching across Cornwall, and the isolation is part of the appeal. The castle itself dates back to the Norman period, making it a serious draw for anyone interested in medieval military architecture or local history. Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour picking through the ruins and soaking in the landscape - it's not a massive time commitment, but it's worth the detour if you're already exploring Bodmin's surroundings.

This works best for walkers and history enthusiasts rather than families with young children. The moorland terrain is exposed and windswept, so check the weather before you head out. Free admission and no set hours means you can visit whenever suits you, though late afternoon light is genuinely striking here.

If you're camping at Camp De Lank or Mena Farm - both proper well-regarded sites within five miles - this makes a solid half-day excursion. Combine it with a walk on Bodmin Moor itself and you've got a cracking afternoon sorted.