Gilbert's Monument

Gilbert's Monument in Bodmin is a tall granite obelisk crowning Bodmin Beacon, the hill above this Cornish market town. Visible from miles around, it is one of the best-known landmarks in the area and makes a rewarding goal for a short hill walk.

What is Gilbert's Monument?

The monument is a granite ashlar obelisk about 144 feet (roughly 44 metres) tall, standing on a moulded base and held together by steel straps up the shaft. It honours Lieutenant General Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert, a Bodmin-born officer of the Bengal Army who served in the Sikh wars. It went up in 1856–57, paid for by his friends, fellow soldiers and townspeople.

Is it a listed building?

Yes. It is on the National Heritage List for England as a Grade II listed structure, designated on 26 March 1949. The official entry dates it to 1856, while some other sources say 1857, reflecting the construction period.

How do you get there?

The Beacon rises about 162 metres above sea level on the edge of Bodmin, and the obelisk sits at the top, so you need to walk up a short path. Several trails circle the hill, and parking nearby is straightforward. There is no ticket or opening time: the land is open to everyone, but it is a plain countryside walk, so wear sturdy shoes. Stick to the waymarked paths, as phone navigation can mislead you near the summit.

What will you see?

Up close you can appreciate the size of the granite blocks and read the inscription to the general. The Beacon is a local nature reserve managed by the town and district authorities, with heath and outcrops of rock. A short route leads to Elephant Rock, and the summit gives wide views over Bodmin and the surrounding countryside.

When should you visit?

Pick a dry, clear day, since the views are the main reward. The hill is open all year, but paths can be muddy in winter and the top is exposed to wind. Allow about an hour for the walk from the car park to the monument and back, longer if you add a loop around the hill.

Frequently asked questions

Does it cost anything to visit? No, the Beacon is freely accessible open land.

How tall is the monument? About 144 feet, or around 44 metres.

Who is it dedicated to? Lieutenant General Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert of Bodmin, an officer of the Bengal Army.

Is the walk difficult? No, but the path climbs and can be muddy, so good footwear helps.