Hawke's Shaft, Killifreth Mine

Standing beside this weathered mine shaft, you're looking at one of Cornwall's many reminders of its industrial past. Hawke's Shaft is what remains of Killifreth Mine, and while it might not look like much more than a stone-lined hole in the ground today, it tells the story of the county's once-thriving mining heritage. The shaft itself is fenced off for safety, but you can still get close enough to peer down into the darkness and imagine the miners who once descended here daily.

History enthusiasts will appreciate this slice of authentic Cornwall, though it's hardly a full day out. The site sits in open countryside not far from Truro, making it an easy detour if you're exploring the area's mining trail. Families with younger children might find it a bit anticlimactic - there's not much to do beyond looking and learning.

Allow about twenty minutes unless you're particularly fascinated by industrial archaeology. The surrounding landscape is pleasant enough for a short walk, and it pairs well with other mining sites in the region. If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Trevarth or Carnon Downs, it makes for a brief educational stop rather than a destination in itself.