Castle Brewery

Castle Brewery sits just outside Bodmin, a proper working operation where they're actually brewing beer rather than performing for tourists. You get to see the whole process - grain, hops, fermentation tanks, the lot - which is far more interesting than you'd expect if you're not usually into that sort of thing.

The tour takes you through what they're doing and why, and you end up in the taproom with a pint in hand. It's not vast, but it feels genuine. Families with older kids do fine here; younger ones might find the standing-around-learning bit tedious after fifteen minutes. Real ale enthusiasts will want to spend a good couple of hours, trying different brews and chatting to whoever's pouring.

Best to check their website for tour times and whether you need to book - these things vary seasonally. Most brewery visits run two to three hours if you're doing the full experience with a tasting.

If you're camping at Eden Valley Holiday Park just up the road, Castle Brewery makes an excellent afternoon stop before heading back for dinner. It's close enough that you won't waste half your day on the drive. Alternatively, if you're based further afield at Par Sands or Mena Farm, it's a worthwhile detour on your way into Bodmin proper. The brewery doesn't pretend to be anything grander than it is, which is exactly why it works.