A guide to Lanhydrock, the National Trust house, garden and estate near Bodmin, as a day trip from our Boscastle campsite.
Lanhydrock is one of Cornwall's best-loved country estates. Looked after by the National Trust, it combines a grand Victorian house, beautiful formal gardens, wooded parkland and family cycle trails. It's a great day out in any weather, and an easy drive from our campsite near Boscastle.
Where is Lanhydrock?
Lanhydrock lies just south of Bodmin, in the wooded valley of the River Fowey. From Lower Pennycrocker Farm, it's roughly 25 miles by road, via Camelford and Bodmin. Follow the brown tourist signs as you approach.
The house
The house at Lanhydrock dates back to the 17th century, but much of what you see today was rebuilt after a fire in 1881. Inside, it gives a vivid picture of Victorian family life, both upstairs and downstairs. You can explore family rooms, bedrooms, the nursery and, below stairs, the kitchens, larders and servants' quarters. The long gallery, with its decorated plaster ceiling, survived the fire and is one of the highlights.
The gardens
The formal gardens around the house are known for their spring colour, especially magnolias, camellias and rhododendrons. In summer, the borders are full of flowers. The gatehouse and the church beside the house make lovely photos.
Parkland and woodland walks
The estate covers a large area of parkland and woodland running down to the River Fowey. There are waymarked walks of different lengths, including riverside paths and woodland trails. Bluebells carpet parts of the woods in spring, and the autumn colours are lovely too.
Cycling at Lanhydrock
Lanhydrock is popular with cyclists of all ages. There are family-friendly cycle trails through the estate, as well as more challenging mountain bike trails. Bike hire is usually available on site. Check what's open before you go. For a longer ride, see our Camel Trail guide.
Food and drink
There are cafés on the estate, serving lunches, snacks and cream teas. You can also bring a picnic to enjoy in the parkland.
Tickets and opening times
National Trust members get free entry. Non-members pay for entry. Opening times for the house, gardens and parkland vary through the year, and parking charges may apply for non-members. Check the National Trust website before you go.
With kids
Lanhydrock is great for families:
- The cycle trails are fun for children of different ages.
- The house below stairs is fascinating for curious kids.
- There's plenty of space to run around in the parkland.
- Look out for seasonal trails and activities.
See our camping with kids guide.
Getting there
From our campsite, head to Camelford, then follow the A39 and the main roads towards Bodmin. Lanhydrock is signposted from Bodmin. The main roads are fine for motorhomes and caravans, but take care on the narrow lanes near the estate. See our Cornish lanes guide.
With dogs
Dogs are welcome in parts of the parkland and woodland. They're not usually allowed in the house or the formal gardens, apart from assistance dogs. Check the latest rules before you go.
A rainy day option
With a large house to explore, Lanhydrock is a good choice for a wet day. Go early, as it can be busy in bad weather. See our rainy day ideas.
Combine with nearby places
- Bodmin: a historic town with the Bodmin Jail attraction and the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.
- Bodmin Moor: see our Bodmin Moor guide.
- Golitha Falls: see our Golitha Falls and Minions guide.
- The Eden Project: further south. See our Eden Project day trip.
A day plan
- Drive from the campsite to Lanhydrock in the morning.
- Tour the house before it gets busy.
- Have lunch at the café or a picnic in the parkland.
- Explore the gardens, then walk or cycle in the woods.
- Drive home via Bodmin Moor.
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes for walks.
- A waterproof jacket.
- Your National Trust membership card, if you have one.
- A picnic and water.
- Bikes, if you're bringing your own.
Best time to visit
Spring is wonderful for the gardens, when the magnolias and camellias are in flower. Summer is great for cycling and picnics. In autumn, the woods are full of colour, and the house is often decorated for Christmas later in the year. Check the National Trust website for events.
Why visit from Boscastle?
Our part of North Cornwall is all about the coast. Lanhydrock offers a different side of Cornwall: grand houses, sheltered woodland and gentle river valleys. It's a good choice on a windy day, when the cliffs are less inviting.
Staying nearby
Our farm campsite near Boscastle is a quiet base for days out across Cornwall. Adults are £10 per night and children 5 and over are £5. Read our North Cornwall day trips guide.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Lanhydrock from Boscastle?
Roughly 25 miles from our campsite by road, near Bodmin.
Is Lanhydrock National Trust?
Yes. Members get free entry; non-members pay.
Can you cycle at Lanhydrock?
Yes. There are family cycle trails and mountain bike trails. Bike hire is usually available.
Are dogs allowed at Lanhydrock?
Dogs are welcome in parts of the parkland and woodland, but not usually in the house or formal gardens.
Stay near Boscastle
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle (PL35 0BY). We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans from 1 April to 31 October. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Showers are free and you park beside your pitch. Check availability and book direct, or see pitches and prices.
