Mountlea Country Park

The views from Mountlea sweep across the St Austell Bay area without the crowds you'd find at more famous Cornish vantage points. It's a proper working countryside spot rather than a polished tourist attraction - which is exactly why it's worth the trip from Par, just half a mile away.

You're looking at open parkland with good sight lines down towards the coast and across the mining landscape that shaped this part of Cornwall. The paths are manageable and the whole thing won't demand more than an hour unless you're the type to linger with a camera for ages. Walkers will appreciate the straightforward terrain; families with young kids will find it unpretentious and spacious enough to let them run about without worrying.

Historically minded visitors might get more from understanding the tin and china clay heritage visible in the wider landscape here - Par itself was built on that industry - but Mountlea works as a pleasant stop for fresh air and a breather if you're based at any of the nearby holiday parks. East Crinnis is barely half a mile away, making it ideal for staying folks after a morning at the beach.

The real strength is that it feels like somewhere locals actually use. No entrance fees, no gift shop, just open space with something to look at. Whether it's worth the detour depends on your mood - if you're after Instagram-ready drama, head to the coast. If you want a quiet walk with decent views and a real sense of place, come here instead.