Northpark Wood

Northpark Wood is a proper woodland walk just outside Callington, the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think. The forest floor is thick with moss and fallen leaves, dense enough that you'll lose sight of the main road within minutes of entering. There's nothing fancy about it - no visitor centre, no themed trails with interpretation boards - just trees, paths, and the occasional stream cutting through the undergrowth.

Walkers will get the most from this one. The woodland is open enough to explore without needing a detailed map, though you'll want decent boots after rain because it gets boggy in patches. Allow a couple of hours if you're not in a rush; there's no point hurrying through somewhere this quiet. Families with younger kids might find an hour enough before boredom sets in, unless they're the type who like building dens and turning over logs.

It's free to access and works brilliantly as a half-day break from a holiday base at Woodovis Holiday Park, only 5 miles away. You could easily combine it with a walk around Callington's quieter corners or a spot of lunch in town before heading back. Go mid-week if possible - weekends can bring a fair few locals out, which rather spoils the peaceful vibe. Winter's actually lovely here when the light filters through the bare branches, though spring and early autumn are probably your best bet for good underfoot conditions.