There's something delightfully nostalgic about Tehidy Holiday Park. Nestled in the wooded seclusion of the Tolskithy Valley, arrival at this family-run campsite – with its iconic red phone box and swing-sign advertising Roskilly's ice cream – feels like the beginning of a Famous Five tale. And with the storied sands and hidden coves of St Ives and other west Cornwall beaches a healthy walk away through the sprawling woodlands of Tehidy Country Park, adventure is never far.
But while Tehidy is quaint, it's far from a twee, 'camping from the dark ages' experience. There are an array of pitches for campers and caravanners, with conveniently located utilities aplenty. Everything about this place is well-maintained, from the neatly-trimmed grass to the immaculately clean wash facilities, to the well-stocked site shop, formerly the local blacksmith's forge. Even the vibrant wildflowers which adorn the perimeter seem perfectly proportioned – a cluster of foxglove here, a bunch of orchid there.
For those not as enamoured with the joys of canvas and tent peg, Tehidy's glamping pods make for the perfect fuss-free break. These fully-insulated wooden cabins are heated and wired, with all the mod cons you could possibly need – an affordable alternative to costly Cornish B&Bs and ideal for those travelling light.
Affable owner Richard takes tremendous pride in every aspect of the park, and it's easy to see why Tehidy is one of Cornwall's most garlanded campsites – it was voted regional winner of Cornwall six years running and 'Best Holiday Caravan and Lodge Site in the UK' in 2019 and has won the David Bellamy Gold Conservation Award 12 years in a row. Tehidy's shelves are literally creaking with prizes from the camping cognoscenti. If Mr Bellamy drops by with any more, they'll have to build him his own pod!