Hendra Park

The Cornish countryside around Truro hides some proper quiet corners, and Hendra Park is one of them. This nature reserve sits just outside the city, offering the kind of spot where you can actually hear yourself think - something increasingly rare in holiday hotspots. What you get is woodland walks through native trees and open grassland where local wildlife goes about its business without too much fuss.

It's a straightforward place, really. No visitor centre, no café, no twee gift shop. Just paths that meander through the reserve, ideal for anyone wanting a gentle walk rather than a proper hike. Families will find it manageable - kids won't get bored if you keep the pace relaxed and let them poke about looking for birds and insects. Dog walkers love it, naturally. The reserve has the feel of somewhere locals have known about for years without it becoming overrun.

Getting there from Truro takes minutes by car, making it perfect for a morning walk while staying at one of the nearby caravan parks like Carnon Downs or Trevarth. You could knock off a couple of hours here without feeling rushed, then head elsewhere for lunch. Spring and early summer work best when the woodland floor comes alive with wildflowers and bird activity picks up. Worth the detour if you're based in the area and want something low-key - don't expect dramatic vistas or anything Instagram-worthy, just good Cornish woodland doing what it does.