Rough Hill Plantation

Drive north from Launceston and you'll find yourself in proper woodland - Rough Hill Plantation is the sort of place that feels properly removed from things, even though it's barely outside town. It's a working forest, so don't expect manicured paths and visitor centres. What you get instead is dense Cornish woodland with trails that wind through conifers and broadleaves, the kind of walking that's rewarding without being punishing.

The plantation works best for people who actually enjoy forests rather than just walking through them. Walkers will find good paths if they're prepared to read the ground - locals and regular visitors know it well. Kids under eight might find the lack of attractions a bit dull, but older ones with any woodcraft interest will get something from the place. It's moody in autumn, muddy in winter, and properly green come spring.

There's no obvious visitor infrastructure here - no cafe, no car park sign, no admission fees that I could find. You'll need to be self-sufficient. Allow a couple of hours minimum if you're serious about exploring. The woodland offers good shelter from weather, which matters in Cornwall where rain comes sideways.

If you're camping at Trewithen Farm Glamping just down the road, this makes a solid rainy day walk or a morning stretch before heading elsewhere. It's authentic woodland, not a tourist experience. That's either exactly what you want or entirely not.