Thunder Falls

The waterfall crashes down with genuine force after heavy rain - it's one of those Cornish spots that transforms completely depending on the weather. Most of the year it's a modest trickle, but after a proper downpour it lives up to its name with water thundering over the rocks into a pool below.

It's a short walk from Little Petherick if you know where you're going, though the paths aren't signposted brilliantly and locals seem split on the best approach. The walk itself is pleasant enough through woodland, but don't expect anything dramatic in terms of distance or difficulty - twenty minutes there and back covers it comfortably.

Honestly, it's the kind of place that rewards a detour if you're already in the area rather than something to plan a day around. Families with younger kids will find it manageable, and walkers exploring the broader North Cornwall landscape might stumble across it. History buffs won't find much to engage with.

If you're staying at Padstow Holiday Village nearby, it's worth bundling into an afternoon walk without making it your main event. Time your visit after rain and you'll see it at its best - clear skies and low water levels make it feel a bit underwhelming. Allow an hour maximum including the walk, and go when the rivers are running.