The Flagstaff

The Flagstaff sits on high ground above Truro, offering one of those rare views where you understand why Cornish towns ended up where they did. It's not a destination that'll eat up your afternoon - more a proper pit-stop if you're exploring the area, somewhere to stretch the legs and get your bearings.

What you're looking at from up here is the cathedral spire puncturing the skyline, the River Fal snaking through the valley below, and on a clear day, enough of the surrounding landscape to make the short walk worthwhile. There's no visitor centre, no café, no faffing about. You park, you walk, you look at the view. It works.

The climb itself is gentle enough for families with kids who aren't completely fractious, though younger ones might find it dull once they've reached the top. The real draw is for walkers who appreciate a good vantage point without the huffing and puffing of something like Pen Enys Point. History types won't find much here - it's about the vista, not the backstory.

If you're camped at Veryan Camping and Caravanning Club Site just down the road, it's five minutes' drive away and worth the detour before breakfast. Even from Tregarton or Treveague, both within easy striking distance, it's the sort of stop that rounds out a morning before heading toward Heligan or elsewhere. Free, naturally, and open whenever you fancy it. Allow fifteen minutes, maybe half an hour if you're the lingering type.