Half an hours drive away, Golitha Falls is on the edge of Bodmin Moor. Golitha Falls are pretty stunning! It’s a section of the River Fowey which has a selection of little and bigger waterfalls. The fast flowing water here has great twists and turns and boulders covered in moss. This is all set in Draynes Wood which is ancient oak woodland carpeted with bluebells in April / May which hides the remains of an old copper mine (lots are closed off to protect the rare bats that now inhabit it) and pipes which used to move china clay. So there is lots for all ages to find of interest and dog friendly.
My two boys love investigating the rock formations (dragon dens apparently!). The dog loves the paddling and socialising, while Ed can spend hours playing with his camera getting interesting views of the river water. Packing a few flapjacks or brownies, I can sit on a boulder and watch the world go. It reminds me just why Cornwall is such a fab place to live!
The car park (post code is PL14 6RU and just over a lovely old bridge dating to 1876!) is free and the start and end point of a number of ambles or proper walks – iWalk Cornwall is a useful phone app which has this lovely walk (just over 6 miles) that also takes in Siblyback Lake (where there is a cafe, good sized play ground and various water activities available).
A bite to eat perhaps?
In the car park is Inkie’s Smokehouse, very well loved by us and many many locals. Renowned for their BBQ food, they also serve delicious milkshakes, ice creams. Just next door there is also a little shop selling some local gourmet treats and basics.
For a traditional pub atmosphere but with very tasty gastropub meal, try the Racehorse Inn which is a short drive away in a very picturesque village. On wet and cold days, the fire is always going which is very well after a good walk.