Woodgate Wood

Dense woodland in the heart of mid-Cornwall, Woodgate Wood offers proper walking country without the crowds you'd get at the more famous forests further west. The tracks wind through mixed broadleaf and conifers, with enough elevation changes to keep things interesting but nothing that'll punish your knees. You're looking at anything from a quick 20-minute loop to a couple of hours tramping about, depending on which paths you fancy. It's the kind of place where you actually hear birdsong instead of other people's music.

Walkers and anyone after some fresh air will get the most from it. Families with younger kids might find it a bit samey after half an hour - there's no waterfall at the end or adventure playground to break things up. That said, if your children can handle a decent hike, the woodland itself is genuinely lovely, especially in spring when the ground's thick with bluebells. The forest sits just outside Penpillick, which keeps it relatively quiet even during summer holidays.

Par Sands Holiday Park is only 2.6 miles away, making this an ideal half-day break from a coastal camping trip. The other parks - East Crinnis, Tremeer Farm, and The Camping Field - are all within easy driving distance if you're based anywhere on the Par to Looe corridor. Free access, no facilities to speak of, no visitor centre or café. Bring your own water and decent boots. Winter can be muddy; autumn's probably the sweet spot.