St Peter

High on the clifftop near Port Isaac, this ancient church commands one of the finest views along the north Cornish coast. St Peter's sits in splendid isolation, its Norman foundations and medieval stonework weathered by centuries of Atlantic storms.

The church itself is surprisingly modest inside - expect solid stone walls, ancient timbers, and that particular hush that comes with age. But step outside and you'll understand why medieval parishioners climbed this hill for Sunday service. The panorama stretches from Tintagel's dramatic headland right round to Padstow Bay.

Walkers get the most from a visit here, especially those tackling the South West Coast Path. It makes a proper contemplative pause between the drama of Port Isaac harbour and the wild stretches towards Polzeath. The churchyard's weathered headstones tell stories of fishing families and shipwrecks - Cornwall's maritime history written in granite.

Families staying at nearby Porthilly Beach Holiday Park or St Minver Holiday Park will find it a gentle detour, though restless children might prefer the rock pools down at Port Isaac itself. The walk up from Trelights takes about twenty minutes through farmland - wear decent shoes as the path can be muddy after rain.

Allow an hour including the walk and time to properly appreciate that view. Early morning light is particularly lovely here, before the tour coaches reach Port Isaac.