Pentargon Waterfall

The walk down to Pentargon Waterfall takes you through proper lush woodland, the kind where the light filters green through the canopy and you can hear water long before you see it. It's near Bude, so you're in that dramatic north Cornwall coast territory, though the waterfall itself sits inland where things get a bit wilder and quieter.

The cascade itself isn't enormous - it's not going to take your breath away like some Alpine torrent - but that's rather the point. There's something appealing about a waterfall that hasn't been trampled into submission by coachloads of tourists. The walk's straightforward enough for families with older kids, though the path gets properly muddy after rain, so good boots are non-negotiable.

You're looking at maybe 45 minutes there and back, all in, which makes it a lovely half-morning excursion if you're staying at Pencuke Farm Holiday Cottages or the Bude Camping and Caravanning Club Site nearby. Combine it with a coastal walk or the beaches around Bude and you've got a solid day sorted. The waterfall works best in autumn or after heavy rain when the water's actually got some volume to it. Summer visits can feel a bit underwhelming if there's been a dry spell.

It's free to access and there's no formal infrastructure, which means you'll need to bring your own water and snacks. Go early in the day if you can - you'll have the place virtually to yourself.