Bodelva, UK Guide
Bodelva is a small village in Cornwall, England, primarily known as the home of the Eden Project, a world-renowned ecological attraction. While not a bustling city, Bodelva offers a unique experience centered around environmental awareness and stunning botanical displays. Visitors come to explore the biomes, learn about sustainability, and enjoy the beautiful Cornish countryside. Beyond the Eden Project, Bodelva provides a peaceful escape with easy access to other Cornish attractions. The surrounding area boasts picturesque coastal towns, sandy beaches, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. It's a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of education, natural beauty, and relaxation.
Food & Cuisine
While Bodelva itself has limited dining options outside of the Eden Project, the surrounding area offers a diverse culinary scene. Cornish pasties are a must-try, and fresh seafood is readily available in nearby coastal towns like Fowey and Mevagissey. St Austell, a short bus ride away, has a wider selection of restaurants and pubs serving traditional British fare and international cuisine. The Eden Project also has several cafes and restaurants offering a range of options, from light snacks to full meals, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Bodelva is very limited due to its small size. For evening entertainment, visitors typically head to nearby towns like St Austell or Bodmin. St Austell offers a selection of pubs and bars, while Bodmin has a few traditional pubs and restaurants that stay open later. The focus is generally on relaxed evenings rather than vibrant nightlife.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bodelva is during the spring (April-May) or summer (June-August) months. The weather is generally warmer and drier, making it ideal for exploring the Eden Project and enjoying the surrounding countryside. The Eden Project's gardens are also at their most vibrant during these months. However, be prepared for larger crowds during the peak summer season.
Transportation
Public transportation in Bodelva is limited, primarily consisting of bus services. The main bus routes connect Bodelva to nearby towns like St Austell and Bodmin, providing access to wider transportation networks. Due to its rural location, relying on a car is often the most convenient way to explore the surrounding area and access other Cornish attractions. Taxis are also available, but pre-booking is recommended.
Airport
The closest airport to Bodelva is Newquay Airport (NQY), located approximately 15 miles away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Bodelva. Public transportation options are limited, requiring a combination of bus and train journeys. Car rental is generally the most convenient option for travelling from Newquay Airport to Bodelva.
Attractions
Eden Project
The Eden Project is a popular visitor attraction in Cornwall, England, featuring two giant biomes housing plants collected from many diverse climates and environments. Visitors can explore rainforest and Mediterranean ecosystems, learn about conservation, and enjoy outdoor gardens and art installations. It's an educational and visually stunning experience for all ages.
World War Two Airfield Memorial Museum
The World War Two Airfield Memorial Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the airfield and the people who served there during the war. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories from the era. It offers a glimpse into the past and honors the sacrifices made during the conflict.
Day Trips
Fowey is a charming port town with a rich maritime history. Explore the narrow streets, browse the independent shops, and enjoy stunning views of the harbor. Take a boat trip or walk along the coastal path.
40 minutes by car Polperro is a quaint fishing village with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a charming harbor. Explore the village, visit the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling & Fishing, and enjoy the coastal walks.
1 hour by car St Ives is a picturesque seaside town known for its art scene, beautiful beaches, and stunning coastal scenery. Visit the Tate St Ives, explore the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, and relax on Porthmeor Beach.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Plymouth is a historic port city with a rich maritime heritage. Visit the Plymouth Hoe, explore the Barbican, and learn about the city's role in naval history.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Tintagel Castle is a dramatic medieval ruin perched on a rugged headland, steeped in Arthurian legend. Explore the castle remains, cross the new bridge, and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
1 hour 30 minutes by car The Eden Project is a popular visitor attraction in Cornwall, England, UK. Inside the two biomes are plants that are collected from many diverse climates and environments. The project is located in a reclaimed china clay pit, located 2 km (1.2 mi) from the town of St Blazey.
5 minutes by car Truro is Cornwall's only city, offering a mix of shopping, culture, and history. Visit Truro Cathedral, explore the Royal Cornwall Museum, and browse the shops and restaurants.
30 minutes by car Bodmin Moor is a rugged and beautiful moorland landscape with dramatic granite tors, ancient stone circles, and stunning views. Hike to the summit of Brown Willy, explore the Cheesewring, and discover the history of this wild landscape.
45 minutes by car Dartmoor National Park is a vast and wild landscape of granite tors, ancient woodlands, and open moorland. Hike to the summit of a tor, explore the historic villages, and discover the unique wildlife of this protected area.
1 hour 45 minutes by car Exeter is a historic city with a stunning cathedral, Roman walls, and a vibrant cultural scene. Explore the city's history, visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, and enjoy the shops and restaurants.
1 hour 45 minutes by car Charlestown is a picturesque Georgian port village known for its collection of tall ships and its use as a filming location for period dramas. Visit the Shipwreck Centre, stroll along the harbor, and enjoy the coastal scenery.
20 minutes by car The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a restored Victorian garden, offering a unique blend of formal gardens, jungle areas, and productive kitchen gardens. Explore the diverse landscapes and discover hidden sculptures.
30 minutes by car Fowey is a charming and bustling port town nestled on the banks of the Fowey Estuary. Explore its narrow, winding streets filled with independent shops, art galleries, and delicious eateries. Take a boat trip along the river, visit St Catherine's Castle, or simply relax on one of the nearby beaches. Fowey offers a delightful blend of maritime history, natural beauty, and Cornish charm.
40 minutes by car Truro, Cornwall's only city, offers a blend of history, culture, and shopping. Visit Truro Cathedral, explore the Royal Cornwall Museum, and browse the shops and restaurants in the city center. Truro is a great base for exploring the rest of Cornwall and offers a more urban experience than the coastal towns.
30 minutes by car Escape to the wild beauty of Bodmin Moor, a vast expanse of granite tors, ancient stone circles, and rugged landscapes. Hike to the summit of Brown Willy, Cornwall's highest point, explore the mysterious Stripple Stones stone circle, or visit the Jamaica Inn, made famous by Daphne du Maurier. Bodmin Moor offers a sense of adventure and a chance to connect with nature.
45 minutes by car Polperro is a quintessential Cornish fishing village, known for its narrow, winding streets, colorful cottages, and picturesque harbor. Explore the village on foot, discover hidden coves, and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Visit the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling & Fishing to learn about the village's rich history.
1 hour by car St Ives is a picturesque seaside town renowned for its art scene, beautiful beaches, and stunning coastal scenery. Explore the Tate St Ives, wander through the charming streets, relax on Porthmeor Beach, or take a boat trip to Seal Island. St Ives offers a vibrant mix of culture, natural beauty, and Cornish charm.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Step back in time in Charlestown, a remarkably preserved Georgian port. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a fleet of tall ships, a fascinating shipwreck museum, and picturesque harbor views. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the quay, grab some fresh seafood, and soak up the maritime atmosphere. It's a perfect destination for history buffs and those seeking a charming coastal experience.
15 minutes by car Just a stone's throw from Bodelva, the Eden Project is a must-see. Explore the iconic biomes housing rainforest and Mediterranean ecosystems. Wander through stunning gardens, learn about sustainability, and enjoy seasonal events. It's a fantastic day out for all ages, offering a unique blend of education and natural beauty.
5 minutes by car Perched dramatically on a rugged headland, Tintagel Castle is steeped in Arthurian legend and offers breathtaking coastal views. Explore the ruins of the medieval castle, cross the spectacular new bridge, and imagine the tales of King Arthur and Merlin. Tintagel is a truly magical place that will transport you back in time.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Visit the most southerly point of mainland Britain. Explore the unique geology, spot rare seabirds, and enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery. The Lizard Peninsula is a haven for wildlife and offers stunning walks along the South West Coast Path.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Discover the magic of the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a restored Victorian garden that was lost to overgrowth for decades. Explore the jungle, the walled garden, the pleasure grounds, and the ancient woodland. The gardens are a testament to the power of nature and a truly enchanting place to spend a day.
30 minutes by car Fowey
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Polperro
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St Ives
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Plymouth
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Tintagel Castle
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Eden Project
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Truro
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Bodmin Moor
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Dartmoor National Park
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Exeter
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Charlestown
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Lost Gardens of Heligan
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Fowey
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Truro
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Bodmin Moor
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Polperro
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St Ives
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Charlestown
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Eden Project
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Tintagel Castle
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Lizard Point
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Lost Gardens of Heligan
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