Family-Friendly Walks in Cornwall: Our Visit to Golitha Falls

During our recent weekend getaway to Bodmin Holiday Park (our third visit!), we were on the lookout for somewhere new to explore — somewhere beautiful, outdoorsy, and perfect for both the kids and the dogs. This time, we discovered Golitha Falls, and absolutely loved it!

Why We Chose Golitha Falls

Each year when we come to Bodmin, we try to find a local hidden gem where the whole family can head out for some fresh air and a bit of adventure. This place had been on my sisters radar for a little while and I’m so glad we picked this place to explore. It's a magical spot — set along a winding river with small waterfalls, mossy rocks to climb on, and peaceful woodland paths.

Getting There & Parking

Golitha Falls is just a 30-minute drive from Bodmin. It was really easy to find, and the scenery as you drive in is just stunning.

There’s a decent-sized car park with space for around 50 cars. If it’s busy, you’ll usually find a few spots along the road outside too. Parking is free, although the official website suggests a voluntary donation via the RingGo app, which we thought was a nice touch.

Facilities on Site

The car park has a couple of Portaloos, which came in handy after the journey!

And then there’s Inkie’s Smokehouse BBQ — a rustic café right by the car park that smells incredible. We were dying to try it, but by the time we returned from our walk it was packed with happy diners, and we weren’t sure about gluten-free options. It’s definitely on our list for next time though!

Exploring Golitha Falls

There are a few different walking routes at Golitha Falls, designed to suit a range of abilities. If you’ve been following us for a while, you’ll know that my son and husband are always the first to head off climbing rocks and fallen trees by the water — and this walk was no exception! They were in their element, clambering over boulders and following the river along its twisty, magical path.

We had quite a mixed-age group with us this time, from my gorgeous new 3-week-old nephew to my parents, who were happier with something more level. Thankfully, Golitha Falls has that covered too. There’s a flat, accessible path higher up along the river, which was perfect for the pushchair and for those who wanted to take it steady.

After a gentle stroll, we found a little beach-like area beside the water where we stopped for about half an hour. The kids and dogs had a paddle in the shallow water while the grown-ups enjoyed the peaceful surroundings. It was just bliss.

Would We Go Back?

Absolutely. Golitha Falls is one of those places that feels like a proper Cornish secret — peaceful, wild, and beautiful in every direction. It’s ideal for a family walk, a dog-friendly day out, or just a bit of time away from the hustle and bustle.

We’ll definitely be back — and next time, we’re heading straight to Inkie’s for lunch!