The Beacon crowns the top of a high hill (162m) around which the town of Bodmin has developed. The Beacon comprises 7.47 ha of acidic heathland and the outer margins of the field are defined by European gorse stands which grade into scrub oak woodland bounded by spar stone hedges.

Standing at 144ft tall, the obelisk was erected in 1856 in honour of Sir Walter Raleigh Gilbert for his distinguished services in India. Today, the Beacon is managed as a local nature reserve by the town and district Councils and is a favourite destination for locals and tourists because of its commanding views, open spaces and wildlife.