Wheal Jane Tailings Dam

Orange water stretches across this former mining site like something from another planet. Wheal Jane's tailings dam creates an unsettling but oddly compelling lake, its vivid colour a lasting reminder of Cornwall's copper mining heritage. The acidic waters glow rust-orange thanks to decades of mineral deposits - fascinating if you're into industrial archaeology, slightly eerie if you're not.

Walking around the perimeter takes about half an hour, though there's no official footpath so you'll need to pick your way carefully. The contrast between this alien landscape and the green Cornish countryside beyond is properly striking. Photographers love the otherworldly quality, especially when the light catches the water just right.

Families might find it more curiosity than destination - kids will be intrigued for ten minutes then start asking what's next. It's free to visit and always accessible, though the water itself is absolutely not for swimming or fishing. Best combined with a trip to nearby Truro rather than making a special journey.

If you're staying at Carnon Downs or Trevarth Holiday Park, it's a quick detour that adds an unusual chapter to your Cornish adventure. Not everyone's cup of tea, but worth the brief stop if you appreciate how industry has shaped this landscape.