Pinetum Gardens

Twenty acres of conifers and exotic trees laid out like a living catalogue - that's what Pinetum Gardens near Tregrehan Mills offers. It started as a Victorian plant collection and still feels like one, with specimen trees from around the world planted across sloping grounds that demand proper boots and a decent pair of lungs.

You're walking through a serious woodland garden here, not a manicured park. There are rare pines, cedars, and heritage specimens you won't find elsewhere in Cornwall. The labelling is thorough if you're into that sort of thing - tree spotters will be occupied for a good two hours, maybe more if you stop to sit and absorb the scale of it.

Families with young kids might find it a bit heavy going. It's steep in places and there's not much in the way of facilities or playground action. But if you've got teenagers who aren't glued to their phones, or you're serious about plants and design, it's worth the drive from Pentewan Sands Holiday Park or East Crinnis, both within easy reach.

The best time to visit is spring when the understory's coming through, or autumn when the light cuts through the canopy differently. Check ahead for opening hours and entry fees - details are thin on the ground online, but it's run with care and the upkeep shows. Allow three hours minimum if you want to actually look at things rather than just walk through.