Hale's Wood

A proper woodland walk rather than a destination you'll spend hours in, Hale's Wood sits just outside Bude and gives you the chance to stretch your legs under tall trees without having to trek far from the coast. The paths wind through dense growth - it's genuinely peaceful, the kind of place where you actually hear birdsong instead of ice-cream vans. You're looking at maybe 30-45 minutes for a decent wander depending on which routes you take.

Histor folk and nature enthusiasts will find it worthwhile. Kids get bored quickly unless they're into bug-hunting or building dens, so don't expect it to keep a five-year-old occupied for more than an hour. The woodland feels properly wild for Cornwall - tangled undergrowth, moss-covered trees, that deep green smell you don't get on the clifftop paths everyone else is doing.

If you're staying at Pencuke Farm or the Bude Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Hale's Wood makes an easy morning outing before heading to the beaches. It's free to access and there's limited parking near the entrance - arrive early if the weather's been good, as it gets surprisingly popular with locals. Wear proper boots; the ground gets soggy and the paths can be muddy even after light rain. Go when the light filters through properly - autumn and spring are best. Summer's too thick with foliage to see much, and winter can feel a bit too gloomy unless you're after that atmospheric vibe.