Present Day
The Bodmin & Wenford Railway operates a 6.5-mile route and offers regular steam and diesel-hauled heritage services. It is known for its beautiful Cornish countryside scenery and special events, including themed trains, dining experiences, and Santa Specials.
Preservation and Reopening
In 1984, the Bodmin Railway Preservation Society was formed to save and restore part of the line. The first preserved section, from Bodmin Parkway to Bodmin General, reopened in 1990, followed by the extension to Boscarne Junction in 1996.
History of the Bodmin & Wenford Railway
The railway’s origins date back to 1887, when the line from Bodmin Road (now Bodmin Parkway) to Bodmin General was opened by the Great Western Railway to connect the town with the mainline. A second branch, from Bodmin General to Wadebridge, opened in 1888, linking with the existing Bodmin & Wadebridge Railway that dated back to 1834. This route served both passengers and freight, including china clay and agricultural products. Passenger services on the line were gradually reduced due to the rise of road transport. The branch to Wadebridge closed to passengers in 1967, followed by the Bodmin General to Bodmin Road section in 1968, though freight services lingered for a short period.