St Austell Golf Course

The course sits on proper Cornish clay soil just outside Polgooth, which means it plays differently depending on the weather. In the dry it's firm and fast; after rain, it's a different beast altogether. Eighteen holes winding through established trees and open parkland gives you that satisfying mix of challenge and scenery without feeling overly manicured.

Golfers will appreciate the routing - it's got teeth without being unnecessarily brutal, and the greens read tricky enough to keep you honest. The rough can get thick in summer, so bring a spare ball or three. Walkers get a decent stroll regardless of handicap, and the countryside views across the clay pits toward Polgooth remind you you're in mining country, even if the pits themselves are long closed.

If you're staying at Pentewan Sands Holiday Park just down the road, this is an easy fix for a day when you fancy something structured. Same goes for Treveague Campsite if you're after a quieter base. Most club courses in Cornwall are decent enough, but this one doesn't feel like a slog, which counts for something. You'll want a full morning or early afternoon to play it properly - don't rush.

Best in spring and autumn when the ground isn't waterlogged. Summer crowds at the nearby holiday parks mean weekdays are your friend.