Exploring Bodmin Moor: A Landscape Etched in Time

Bodmin Moor, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Cornwall, England, presents a captivating landscape rich in history, folklore, and natural beauty. Navigating this granite-hewn expanse requires a keen eye and a good map, as its contours and features can be deceiving. The Ordnance Survey Explorer 109 map, covering Bodmin Moor, is an essential tool for any serious explorer. It reveals a tapestry of contrasting terrains. Central to the moor is its undulating plateau, punctuated by dramatic granite tors – imposing rock formations sculpted by millennia of weathering. Brown Willy, the highest point in Cornwall, and Rough Tor stand out prominently, their peaks offering panoramic views across the moor and beyond. The map highlights a network of footpaths, bridleways, and ancient trackways that crisscross the moor. These paths wind through heather-clad slopes, past gorse-covered hillsides, and alongside babbling streams. The South West Coast Path grazes the moor’s southern edge, offering breathtaking coastal vistas a short drive from its heart. Water plays a crucial role in shaping Bodmin Moor. The map details the intricate network of rivers and streams that flow from the higher ground, carving valleys and nourishing the landscape. The River Fowey, one of Cornwall’s major rivers, originates on the moor, its course marked clearly on the map. Numerous reservoirs, such as Colliford Lake and Dozmary Pool, are also featured, providing vital water resources and offering opportunities for recreation. Dozmary Pool is steeped in Arthurian legend, supposedly the lake where Excalibur was cast. Beyond its natural features, the map unveils the moor’s rich historical legacy. Stone circles, standing stones, and burial cairns dot the landscape, testament to human activity dating back to the Bronze Age. The Hurlers stone circles, three well-preserved prehistoric monuments near Minions, are clearly marked. Abandoned mine workings, remnants of Cornwall’s once-thriving mining industry, are scattered across the moor, serving as reminders of a bygone era. The Cheesewring, a distinctive granite tor resembling a stack of cheeses, is another popular landmark identifiable on the map, drawing attention to its unique geological formation. Interspersed throughout the moor are small villages and hamlets, their locations precisely indicated on the map. These settlements, such as Blisland, St Breward, and Altarnun, offer a glimpse into rural Cornish life. Each village possesses its own unique character and charm, often centered around a historic church or village pub. Careful examination of the map reveals potential hazards. Marshy areas and boggy ground are common, especially after periods of rain. Precise navigation is crucial to avoid getting bogged down or lost, especially in poor visibility. The map also highlights areas of restricted access, such as military training areas, ensuring visitors are aware of potential dangers. Ultimately, a map of Bodmin Moor is more than just a guide to its physical features. It’s a key to unlocking the moor’s rich history, understanding its diverse ecosystems, and appreciating its enduring beauty. It allows you to confidently explore this captivating landscape, ensuring a safe and rewarding experience.