National Trust - Lizard Point

The southernmost point of mainland Britain is a properly dramatic spot - all jagged rocks, crashing waves, and that peculiar sense of standing at the edge of things. Lizard Point itself is owned by the National Trust and it's entirely free to walk out here, which is half the appeal. You get the lighthouse (still operational, still handsome) and on a clear day, views that stretch for miles across the Celtic Sea. The coastal path is excellent either way you fancy - west towards Mullion Cove is gentler, east towards Polperro gets more rugged.

Walkers will absolutely love this. The terrain's not brutal, mostly, but it's proper elemental. Bring decent shoes because the rocks are sharp and the path narrows in places. An hour either direction will give you the best of it without overdoing things, though serious hikers can push on for much longer. History buffs might find the smuggling tales entertaining - this coastline's dark with them - but it's the raw geology and seabird life that make it sing.

Helmston's the nearest town if you need supplies or a cup of tea, but honestly you'll want to stay close by. Henry's Camp Site sits just half a mile away, which makes it ideal for a morning or afternoon expedition before settling in for the evening. The light's best late in the day anyway - that golden hour hits the cliffs something special. Go on a weekday if you can stomach the slightly longer drive from wherever you're based. Weekends get rammed with tourists and Instagram hunters.