Quarrying history, a striking prehistoric monolith and a versatile trail give Edmonton and its related cultural and landscape themes a distinctive character. The Quarryman Inn in Edmonton is a traditional Cornish free house. It is located in a historic parish with a quarrying tradition—a specific starting point for understanding the area's history.
Monolith and Architectural History
The St Breock Downs Monolith is considered the largest and heaviest prehistoric monolith in Cornwall. It stands on the summit of St Breock Downs, which offers wide-ranging views. It is thought to date from the Late Neolithic to the Middle Bronze Age, approximately between 2500 and 1500 BC.
The architectural history of St Briocus also spans distinct periods. Construction began in the 13th century; in 1259, Bishop Branscombe dedicated the church to St Briocus. The font, made from Catacleuse stone, dates from around the 14th century. Construction, dedication and furnishings therefore belong to different periods of history. St Briocus is open during daylight hours on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. At other times, visits can be arranged by appointment. Check the latest visitor information before planning your visit.
The Church of St Breock has its own connection to the landscape: it stands in a valley where the ground rises to the north, south and west. At Roskear, a different building phase and a surviving detail come together. The farmhouse dates from the mid-17th century, with extensions added in the 18th century; the roof structure apparently preserves elements from the mid-to-late 17th century. These differences in age make individual architectural details as interesting to consider as the building as a whole.
Industrial history is reflected in the listed barn with horse-engine house west of Carhart Farmhouse. The waterwheel was made by Oatey of Wadebridge and is dated 1848. Part of the original machinery appears to survive in the horse-engine house, including the central wooden post. Tollgate House makes a different architectural statement: this early 19th-century toll house is now a private residence and has an overall polygonal plan with eight chamfered sides. It is therefore best understood as a historic building, not as a publicly accessible attraction.
Camel Trail and Landscape
The Camel Trail is 18 miles long, surfaced, mostly traffic-free and almost level. It is suitable for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and wheelchair users. Its route follows the estuary between Padstow and Wadebridge, then follows the river to Bodmin. The parish of St Breock includes a short section of the trail along its eastern boundary.
A particular spot for nature watching is the accessible birdwatching point on the Camel Trail near Wadebridge, at SW997 717. As facilities may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before visiting. Bishops Wood in the parish of St Breock is open to the public. Alongside the trail, this offers a woodland area and the views from the St Breock Downs Monolith as distinct landscape experiences.
Royal Cornwall Show: Programme and Camping
The Royal Cornwall Show brings together a variety of activities: visitors can see animals and birds up close, and there is also live music and dancing. Near the lake, demonstrations showcase skills such as fishing, stand-up paddleboarding and coracle building. Regional food and drink are another focus. Visitors can meet producers and sample a range of products on offer. The demonstrations and exhibits may vary from year to year.
The Royal Cornwall Show caravan and camping site is on Edmonton Lane. Camping must be booked in advance; check the latest booking information before making plans. This is a specific planning requirement, while the changing event programme is a separate consideration: before visiting, it is worth checking that year's dates and activities.
Edmonton therefore offers several distinct starting points for planning a trip: local and architectural history, landscapes, a clearly described route and an event programme with changing highlights. Which of these shapes your getaway depends on whether you would rather explore historical details, watch wildlife, take a trip along the Camel Trail or attend the Royal Cornwall Show.
Discover more destinations: Egloskerry, Lansallos, Boswinger, Killigarth, Mevagissey, Poundstock, Saint Mawes, Crowan.
For the main travel overview: Cornwall.
