Tremough House Gardens

Fifteen minutes from the bustle of Truro, these gardens wrap around a Victorian mansion that now houses part of the University of Falmouth campus. The grounds are properly lovely - mature trees, well-kept lawns and winding paths that feel more countryside ramble than formal garden tour.

Families will find plenty of space for children to run about, though there's enough horticultural interest to keep keen gardeners happy too. The mix of formal terracing near the house and wilder woodland areas gives you the best of both worlds. Students often use the grounds as an outdoor study space, which adds a gentle buzz without overwhelming the peaceful atmosphere.

Being part of the university means access can be a bit hit-and-miss - worth checking ahead if you're making a special trip. That said, when it's open, it's a cracking spot for a gentle hour or two. The gardens work well as part of a wider exploration of this corner of Cornwall, particularly if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Carnon Downs or Trethem Mill. Not groundbreaking, but a proper slice of Victorian elegance that's well worth the short detour from Carnkie.