Popham Farm Alpaca Trekking

Walking across a Cornish field with an alpaca on the end of a rope is properly daft in the best way possible. Popham Farm, just outside Callington, runs trekking experiences where you take these shaggy-necked creatures out into the countryside - and honestly, they're brilliant company. They plod along at their own pace, stopping to munch grass whenever they fancy, which means you end up having actual conversations with the people you're walking with instead of marching silently like you're on a forced hike.

The alpacas themselves are funny and curious, occasionally spitting if they're feeling cheeky, though our group got through without incident. The trek winds through proper Cornish farmland with decent views across the rolling hills. It's relaxed rather than demanding - perfect for families with kids who'd be bored rigid at a museum, and honestly adults love it too. There's something calming about spending an hour with an animal that couldn't care less about your phone or your work stress.

You'll want to book ahead and check what's on offer when you ring - opening times and prices vary seasonally. Allow a couple of hours including chat time with the owners. If you're staying at Sunnyside Eco Glamping nearby, this works well as a morning activity before heading back for lunch. Wear waterproof boots without fail; Cornish fields are muddy even when it hasn't rained recently. Not a massive day out on its own, but a genuinely enjoyable detour that breaks up a holiday nicely.