Higher Pit View

From this elevated spot above Penwithick, the clay country spreads out in all its industrial glory. The white lunar landscape of china clay workings dominates the view, with their distinctive conical waste tips creating an otherworldly scene that's uniquely Cornish.

Walkers will find this a rewarding stop on longer hikes across the area's network of footpaths. The contrast between the working clay pits and patches of surviving moorland makes for compelling photography, though weather can change quickly up here so come prepared.

Families staying at nearby East Crinnis Holiday Park or The Camping Field will find it makes a decent short excursion, though younger children might lose interest after 20 minutes unless they're keen on geology. The industrial heritage angle works well for older kids learning about Cornwall's mining past.

Best visited on clear days when you can see across to the coast - on misty mornings you'll see precious little. There's no charge to access this viewpoint and parking isn't an issue, though the approach roads are typical narrow Cornish lanes that require careful driving.

While not Cornwall's most spectacular viewpoint, it offers something different from the usual coastal panoramas. Worth combining with a visit to the Eden Project, which lies in a former clay pit not far from here.