Bodmin Riding & Heritage Festival Returns to Celebration

Bodmin is gearing up to welcome back one of Cornwall’s most treasured traditions, as the Bodmin Riding & Heritage Festival returns next month – bringing with it centuries of history, colour, and community spirit. Taking place over the first weekend in July (Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th in 2026), the festival promises a lively mix of heritage, performance, and family-friendly fun, continuing a legacy that stretches back hundreds of years.

Bodmin Riding is widely regarded as one of Cornwall’s oldest living traditions, with the earliest written reference dating back to 1469—though even then it was already described as an established custom, suggesting much older origins. At the heart of the festival lies a powerful piece of local history: the story of St Petroc, Bodmin’s patron saint. In 1177, his relics were stolen and taken to Brittany, only to be recovered and triumphantly returned. Today, the symbolic procession of St Petroc’s casket remains a central and moving element of the celebrations.

What to Expect in 2026

The festival weekend begins on Friday evening, bringing people together for a shared feast with local food, live music, and the traditional ‘Riding Ale’—a chance to gather and celebrate ahead of the main event.

On Saturday, Bodmin town centre transforms as roads close and the streets fill with life:

- A grand procession led by Bodmin Town Band

- Children performing the traditional Furry Dance

- Medieval costumes, bringing history vividly to life

- Craft stalls, local traders, and artisan displays

- Historical re-enactments and interactive experiences

- Live entertainment and activities for all ages

Visitors are encouraged to dress up and get involved, helping to create a festive atmosphere that feels both historic and joyfully contemporary.

As the streets once again fill with music, colour, and centuries-old tradition, Bodmin invites residents and visitors to come together and celebrate its unique heritage.

Find out more

Photos: Kindly provided by Bodmin Camera Club from the 2019 festival -Roy Reynolds (top right) -Peter Hicks (bottom left)