Wadebridge - Old Bridge

The old bridge across the River Camel was originally built over 500 years ago.

It was the last safe crossing point before the river eventually reaches the sea some six miles downstream, near Padstow.

Legend says that the bridge was built on wool but it is more likely that this derives from the wealth of local wool traders than the idea that sacks of wool made the foundations!

Today there is a bypass for the town that crosses the river half a mile downstream on a high level viaduct.

Wadebridge - Molesworth Street

The main street in Wadebridge is called Molesworth Street, after the name of one of the important local families who did much to develop the town in the past.

At one time the main road passed through here and so the Molesworth Arms, which can be seen on the left of this picture, was an important coaching stop.

At the bottom of the street the railway between Bodmin and Padstow passed over a level crossing until it was closed in the 1960's. This is now the Camel Trail.

Camel Trail

The third oldest railway line in the country was built from Wadebridge to Bodmin, carrying sea sand delivered by boat from Padstow. Eventually the line brought main line express trains from Waterloo in London right down to Padstow.

The line was closed in the Sixties and is now a cycle trail and footpath. There are several places to hire cycles and the trail is a pleasant stroll or a more strenuous walk either to Padstow or Bodmin.

Royal Cornwall Show

For three days in June each year, the Royal Cornwall Show draws thousands of visitors from all across Cornwall.

Originally this was a show for local farmers but today has attractions for everyone. Local breeders still bring their best show animals for competition and the show jumping in the main arena is always spectacular. Look out also for the arrival of parachutists or display teams from one of the branches of the military.

Hundreds of stalls sell every conceivable gift and souvenir or household improvement with local crafts a particular speciality.

Unusual craftsmen also come along to demonstrate their art - this picture shows how wooden fences are made.