Bollanack Wood

Walk into Bollanack Wood and you're immediately swallowed by proper old-growth woodland - the sort of place where the canopy is so thick it feels like dusk even at midday. It's a working forest rather than a manicured country estate, which means you get genuine peace rather than the manufactured kind. The paths wind through dense oak and beech, with moss so thick it muffles your footsteps entirely.

There's not much in the way of facilities or signage, which is either brilliant or frustrating depending on your mood. Bring a map or download the route beforehand because you will get turned around otherwise. Most people allow 90 minutes to two hours for a decent walk, though you can do shorter loops if you're pushing a buggy.

This is absolutely the place for walkers who want to escape other walkers. Families with older kids will love it, though toddlers might find the uneven terrain tricky after a while. History buffs won't find much to grab onto - it's more about the walk itself than any particular story, which some people find a relief.

The real draw is how close it feels to nowhere despite being just down the road from Cornwall's better-known spots. If you're staying at The Secret Garden Glamping nearby, this is your go-to for morning walks before heading to the coast. Go early to dodge the afternoon crowd, such as it is. Free to access, naturally.