Talland Church

The walk down to Talland Church is half the appeal. From Looe, you're looking at a proper coastal stroll through woodland that opens suddenly onto this small 13th-century church sitting virtually on the beach itself. It's an extraordinary setting - the kind of place that makes you understand why people built churches where they did. The church is modest, grey-stone, and genuinely ancient without being overwrought about it.

Inside, there's not much to detain you for long. You'll find the usual stone flags, some worn memorials, and a couple of stained-glass windows that wouldn't stop traffic. But that's rather the point. This isn't a destination church - it's a feature of a larger walk. Families with young children will manage the route fine if they're reasonably confident on their feet; it's not arduous, just requires a bit of scrambling through trees.

Come outside summer if you can. July and August bring crowds to this stretch of coast, and Talland loses something when it's jammed with visitors. October or April, you'll likely have it nearly to yourself.

It works brilliantly as a morning detour if you're staying near Tencreek or Killigarth Manor, both within walking distance. Combine it with a proper walk along the South West Coast Path, or use it as an excuse to explore Looe itself, which is a working fishing town rather than a theme park version of one. Allow 90 minutes to two hours if you're taking your time and want a cup of tea afterwards.