Bartinney Nature Reserve

The cliffs at Bartinney drop away suddenly, and you're standing at the edge of something properly dramatic. This nature reserve sits just inland from Penzance, a stretch of moorland and coastal grassland that feels miles away from the town despite being practically on its doorstep. You get windswept views across Mount's Bay, rough scrubland underfoot, and on a clear day the visibility is stunning.

It's the kind of place walkers come for the leg work rather than the destination. There's no visitor centre or café - just open ground, coastal paths, and the chance to spot birds, wildflowers (depending on season), and the occasional adder if you're lucky enough. Spring and early summer are best when the heath's in bloom. Allow an hour or two if you're doing a proper walk; less if you just want to stand on the cliff edge for twenty minutes.

Families with older kids will manage fine, though it's exposed and can be windy - little ones might find it a bit bleak. History types get a kick out of it: there's genuine Bronze Age archaeology here if you know where to look. Free to access, no facilities, no crowds.

If you're based at Roselands Caravan Camping Park or Lands End Camping & Glamping, it's an easy morning's walk from either. Combines well with a wander around Mousehole or Newlyn afterwards, or a proper hike along the South West Coast Path. Not dramatic enough to plan a trip around alone, but absolutely worth the detour if you're already in the area.