Beacon Cottage Farm

Attempting to visit twelve of the best campsites in Devon and Cornwall during one of the worst summers on record was always going to prove tricky, and while we were lucky with weather, there were always going to be a few difficult days, and Beacon Cottage Farm drew the short straw. But even as we were drenched by unwelcome summer rain, you could see this place was worth it. The site is perched on a cliff top just outside St Agnes, with the large main field boasting stunning views of the craggy headland slowly losing its fight with the Atlantic.

In contrast to this awesome but exposed option are several smaller, landscaped paddocks tucked into the farm's orchards. These pitches are much more intimate, with shelter and wandering chickens that go some way to making up for the lack of sea views. The facilities are spotless and well kept, with hot showers, electric hookups and a laundry, and the grass pitches are immaculately maintained. Whichever spot you choose, you'll be heading to the sea soon enough. Chapel Porth beach is a ten-minute scramble away, good for swimming and surfing, and St Agnes is a mile and a half along the coast with three beaches of its own, plus some fine pubs and restaurants.

Beacon Cottage is popular with families, with a good play area and plenty of safe nooks and crannies for the kids to explore. From the main field you'll spy the remains of an old tin mine, a constant, evocative reminder of the heritage of the area. Give the kids (or yourself) an outdoor history lesson by taking the short walk to St Agnes for a free tour of what must be one of the most beautiful ex-industrial areas in the world. One thing worth knowing: it's a hands-off, well-drilled operation rather than a chatty one, so don't expect much fuss from the staff.