Kernow trail

The Kernow Trail is a proper Cornish walking route that takes you through the heart of the county's landscape, linking together some genuinely lovely terrain. It's not one single path but rather a series of connected trails that let you explore Cornwall on foot at your own pace, which is the whole point really.

What you're doing here is walking through real working countryside - moorland, coastal stretches, valleys where you'll actually see what Cornwall looks like beyond the beach car parks. The trail passes through and around Tremayne, which gives you a decent anchor point for supplies and navigation. The beauty of it is flexibility: you can tackle the whole thing as a serious multi-day trek or chip away at sections depending on your energy levels and how much time you've got.

This suits walkers most obviously, especially those who like a bit of self-sufficiency. It's not a doddle - there are proper climbs and some stretches can be muddy - but it's absolutely worth the effort if you're the sort who actually enjoys walking rather than just saying you do. Families with younger kids might find whole-trail ambitions unrealistic, though certain sections work fine for a morning's ramble.

Camp at Mena Farm or Tremarne and you're perfectly positioned. Both are close enough to access different sections without the faff of constant relocation. No specific entry fees that I'm aware of - it's a public trail - though you'll want proper kit and a decent map or GPS. Autumn's your best bet for weather and fewer crowds.