St. Andrews Pond

Tucked away behind St Blazey, this unassuming pond catches many visitors by surprise with its tranquil waters and decent walking circuit. Nothing spectacular, mind you, but it's a proper little oasis that feels worlds away from the china clay works that dominate this corner of Cornwall.

Families staying at nearby Par Sands or East Crinnis Holiday Park will find it makes for a gentle morning walk - the path around the water takes about 20 minutes at a leisurely pace, though toddlers might need carrying for the slightly boggy sections. Duck feeding is the main event here, and the local mallards are decidedly bold about demanding their breakfast.

What strikes you most is the quiet. Traffic noise from the A390 fades to a distant hum, replaced by the gentle lap of water and occasional moorhen splash. Early morning or late afternoon visits work best - the light catches the surface beautifully, and you're more likely to spot the resident herons that fish the shallows.

It's free to visit, naturally, and while you wouldn't plan a whole day around it, St. Andrews Pond makes a lovely detour if you're exploring the area between St Austell and the coast. Perfect for stretching legs between beach days or as a peaceful start to a morning before tackling the Eden Project.