Quoits, Stone circles and Monoliths on Bodmin Moor

Exploring Cornwall’s Hidden Ancient Wonders and Scenery with a Private Guide

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Cornwall’s ancient monuments, charming villages, and sweeping landscapes without the hassle of driving or navigating public transport, this Quoits, Stone Circles, and Monoliths on Bodmin Moor tour might be just the thing. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, it’s been highly praised by past travelers for its ease, depth, and scenic highlights.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it offers the luxury of private transportation and an expert guide, meaning you get to relax and soak in the sights without the usual logistics worries. Second, it combines hidden spots and popular filming locations, so you’re not just ticking off touristy must-sees but truly experiencing Cornwall’s unique charm and history.

That said, the price tag of around $1,040 for a group of four might make you pause—though many feel it’s justified given the personalized service and extensive itinerary. This tour generally suits those who appreciate history, beautiful scenery, and a tailored approach over a crowded group experience. Especially if you’re keen to learn about Cornwall’s ancient past while enjoying some stunning coastal and countryside views, this could fit the bill.

Key Points

• Private tour offers a relaxed, customized experience with a driver-guide.
• Visit a mix of well-known and lesser-known sites, including stone circles, hillforts, villages, and a film-famous harbor.
• Comfort and convenience are prioritized, with hotel pickup, WiFi onboard, and flexible drop-off points.
• Ideal for history buffs and scenery lovers, especially those interested in ancient monuments.
• No included lunch or drinks, so plan to bring snacks or grab something along the way.
• Affordable for a small group considering the extensive, personalized itinerary and private vehicle.

A Deep Dive into What the Tour Covers

This tour is designed to give you a full day of Cornwall’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or rigid schedules. Starting at 9:00 am, you’re picked up from your hotel or designated location, setting the stage for a day rich in history, nature, and local tales.

The Journey Begins in Lerryn and Fowey

Your first stops are relatively relaxed, giving you a taste of Cornwall’s riverside charm. Lerryn, a tiny village upstream from Fowey, inspired Kenneth Graham’s “Tales of the Riverbank”—a quiet spot to soak in peaceful countryside views. It’s a brief stop, only about ten minutes, but enough to get a feel for this quaint locale.

Next, Fowey Harbour, a busy port and yacht haven, offers a glimpse into Cornwall’s maritime life. You’ll experience the Bodinnick vehicle ferry crossing the Fowey river—an easy, scenic ride that adds a bit of fun to your day. You’ll have about ten minutes here, enough to snap some photos and take in the harbor’s lively atmosphere.

Ancient Monuments and Mystical Sites

The highlight for many is the visit to the Hurlers stone circles, which are believed to have been used for ceremonies. The local legend about men turned to stone for playing hurlers on a Sunday adds a charming layer to this ancient site. You’ll spend roughly twenty minutes here, enough to walk among the stones and marvel at their age and mystery.

Then, it’s time for Trevethy Quoit, an impressively preserved Neolithic portal dating back around 3,500–2,500 BC. With about twenty minutes allocated, you’ll get a chance to appreciate how well the structure has survived millennia, and imagine life in those ancient times.

Filming Locations and Coastal Views

Later, the tour stops at Charlestown—a UNESCO heritage site famous for its Georgian harbor and cinematic appearances, notably as Truro in “Poldark.” This spot is perfect for a quick walk, photo opportunities, and soaking up the atmosphere of a working port that’s been used in multiple films and TV shows.

Standing Monoliths and Hillforts

St Breock Downs Monolith, Cornwall’s largest standing stone, is a must-see. We loved the way this Bronze Age monolith, weighing around 17 tonnes, dominates the landscape. From this vantage point, you get remarkable views over the countryside, making it a memorable photo stop. Expect about ten minutes here.

Finally, Castle an Dinas, a well-preserved Neolithic hillfort, is a real highlight. On clear days, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Cornwall—an ideal spot to appreciate the strategic importance of these ancient settlements. The 40-minute visit here allows enough time to explore and take in the scenery.

The Experience and Practicalities

This tour features a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, which helps pass the time and stay connected. The private nature of the tour means your small group (up to four people) gets personalized attention, and the driver-guide shares insights that you wouldn’t get on a larger, more generic trip.

While lunch isn’t included, the stops at local villages mean you can easily find a place to grab a snack or sit outside with a picnic. Note that drinks such as coffee or tea are also not included, so plan accordingly if you like a caffeine fix mid-morning.

The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, giving you ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. Plus, the flexibility of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to the convenience—no need to worry about parking or navigating unfamiliar roads.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviewers mention their guides as a major plus—Doug, in particular, is praised for his friendliness, knowledge, and communication. One review states, “We had a great day out with Doug who was friendly and informative. We would never have found some of the places we visited on our own.” Others appreciated how the guide added context and stories, making the experience more engaging.

The scenic countryside and the ancient sites are well-loved, with travelers noting how the stop at Trethevy Quoit and Castle Dinas were especially memorable. Many found the pace just right, leaving them feeling like they’d uncovered a side of Cornwall they hadn’t seen in guidebooks.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price, many travelers find it a good value, especially given the private, tailored experience and the opportunity to visit both well-known and off-the-beaten-path sites. If you’re someone who values local insights, comfort, and a flexible schedule, this tour hits those marks.

However, if budget is a primary concern and you’re happy to DIY with public transport or group tours, this might feel a bit steep. That said, the convenience, personalized attention, and depth of experience make it appealing for those wanting a hassle-free day with a knowledgeable guide.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, scenery, and stories behind the sights. If you appreciate a comfortable ride over a long day of exploring, and want someone to share local legends and facts along the way, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples seeking a more intimate, bespoke adventure.

While it’s not specifically tailored for families with young children, the sites are generally accessible, and the pace is manageable. Just keep in mind that some stops involve walking around ancient sites, so consider your group’s mobility.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at your choice of Cornwall location, making the day seamless.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, from pickup at 9:00 am to drop-off.

What’s the price for the tour? It costs about $1,040.11 for a private group of up to four people, which covers all transportation and guide services.

Are meals included? No, lunch and drinks aren’t included, but there are stops where you can purchase food and beverages.

Is this tour suitable for large groups? No, it’s designed for small groups (up to 4), offering a more personal experience.

What are the main sites visited? You’ll explore Lerryn, Fowey Harbour, the Hurlers stone circles, Trevethy Quoit, Charlestown, St Breock Downs Monolith, and Castle an Dinas Hillfort.

Are children welcome? The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but consider the walking involved at some sites.

In the end, if you’re eager to see Cornwall’s ancient stones, rugged landscapes, and coastal villages without the stress of planning every detail, this private tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and convenience. It’s perfect for history buffs, photography lovers, or anyone wanting to combine a laid-back day with some of Cornwall’s most captivating sights.