Hurdon Down Farm

When a day at the beach is what you’re after, Hurdon Down is close to the main A30, giving easy access to the North Cornwall coastline. Crackington Haven (half an hour) is a tiny cliff-backed cove, and there are rock pools and swimming spots at Widemouth Bay (35 minutes). Surfers can jump on the waves at Bude (40 minutes), and walkers amble sections of the South West Coast Path (half an hour) for soaring views of hidden coves and sandy stretches. Keen hikers may also like to follow trails up to Leskernick Stone Circle (20 minutes) on Bodmin Moor, and equally well soon be walking to rocky tors in Dartmoor National Park (half an hour). While you’re there, admire the dramatic cascades at Becky Falls Ancient Woodland Park (55 minutes), or tour the art deco rooms at Castle Drogo (40 minutes). Need more inspiration? Spend the day discovering tropical plants and wacky sculptures at The Eden Project (40 minutes), or tour the flour mill and water wheel at National Trust-owned Cotehele (half an hour). Potter around the old boat harbour at Morwellham Quay (25 minutes), and then take a mini-train ride into the former tin mine.