Probus Park

Probus Park is a proper woodland reserve just outside Grampound, where you can spend a couple of hours wandering through mature trees and getting a sense of what rural Cornwall looks like when it's left to itself. The paths are easy enough for most people, though they can get boggy after rain, so waterproof boots aren't a bad shout.

It's the sort of place that appeals most to walkers and anyone interested in woodland ecology rather than families looking for a play area or obvious attractions. You'll see native trees, possibly spot birds, and the whole thing feels refreshingly uncommercialised - no café, no gift shop, no coach parties. The quiet can be a bit of a shock if you're used to busier nature reserves.

We'd allow an hour to ninety minutes depending on how many paths you explore. Go early morning if you want to catch wildlife, or late afternoon when the light's better and it's less likely to feel empty. The nearest town is Grampound, which won't set your world on fire for amenities but has what you need.

If you're staying at one of the local camping parks - Veryan is closest at under five miles, or Heligan if you want something a bit fancier - this makes a decent walk before breakfast or after tea. It's not a must-do, but it fits well into a low-key Cornish holiday if you like woodland and don't need everything wrapped up with facilities and signage.