St Martin's

The church sits on a slope overlooking Launceston, and you'll spot the tower long before you reach it - a proper landmark in the Cornish landscape. St Martin's is medieval at its core, though it's been worked on enough over the centuries that it reads as a palimpsest of different periods, which is exactly what makes it interesting.

Inside, there's decent stonework and some attractive windows, but honestly it's the setting that wins. The churchyard is atmospheric without being gloomy, and if you've got an hour to spare between glamping sessions at Trewithen Farm or Ekopod, this is well worth the walk up. It's not a destination attraction - don't drive an hour for it - but if you're already exploring Launceston town, the climb takes twenty minutes and rewards you with views back across the valley.

Family groups will manage it fine; the walk is straightforward and kids might enjoy spotting old gravestones. Serious church historians will find the architecture interesting but not exceptional. The real appeal is that it feels like an actual working church rather than a heritage exhibit. Local flowers on the altar, well-kept brass, the smell of stone and old wood - all genuine.

Free entry, as with most parish churches. Opening times weren't published when I checked, but it's usually accessible during daylight hours. Summer's your safest bet if you want to guarantee finding it unlocked. The slope back down is easier than the climb up, naturally.