Brown Willy Summit
Distance: 5 miles circular | Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 3 hours
Climb Cornwall’s highest point (420m) for panoramic moorland views.
Highlights
- Cornwall’s highest summit (420m/1,378ft)
- 360-degree moorland views
- Wild ponies and moorland wildlife
- Bronze Age remains
- Nearby Rough Tor (second highest)
- Remote wilderness feel
Route Details
Starting Point: Rough Tor Car Park (PL15 7TF) Terrain: Moorland paths, rocky sections Best Time: Spring to Autumn (good weather) Elevation Gain: Approximately 250m OS Map: Explorer 109
Description
This classic Bodmin Moor walk takes you to the summit of Brown Willy, Cornwall’s highest point. The route crosses open moorland with some rocky sections. Weather can change rapidly on the moor, so come prepared. The summit views are spectacular on a clear day.
The Route
- Start: Rough Tor car park
- Option: Visit Rough Tor first (recommended)
- Cross Moorland: Follow path to Brown Willy
- Summit: Rocky climb to the top
- Return: Via same route or circular
Points of Interest
- Brown Willy Summit - Highest point in Cornwall
- Rough Tor - Second highest with Bronze Age fort
- De Lank River - Moorland stream
- Wild Ponies - Bodmin Moor ponies
- Stone Circles - Ancient monuments nearby
Wildlife & Nature
- Ponies, cattle (give them space)
- Buzzards, ravens, skylarks
- Heather, gorse, cotton grass
- Bog habitat - stay on paths
Facilities
- Parking: Free car park at Rough Tor
- Toilets: None - nearest in Camelford
- Refreshments: None - bring your own
- Mobile Signal: Limited to none
What to Bring
Essential:
- Water and high-energy food
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Warm layers
- Good walking boots
- OS map and compass/GPS
- Mobile phone (limited signal)
Recommended:
- Emergency supplies
- First aid kit
- Whistle
- Sun protection
Safety Notes
- Weather: Can change very rapidly
- Exposure: Very exposed to wind
- Bogs: Wet areas - stick to paths
- Navigation: Easy to get disoriented in mist
- Tell Someone: Your route and expected return
- Winter: For experienced only
Best Time to Visit
- Summer: Best weather, longer days
- Spring: Quieter, wildflowers
- Autumn: Heather in bloom
- Winter: Experienced only, can be severe
A challenging but rewarding walk to Cornwall’s rooftop. The sense of wilderness and panoramic views make this a must-do for serious walkers.