If you enjoy wild swimming, you definitely need to add Trelissick to your list, especially if you swim during the winter. Inland on an estuary of the River Fal, it’s the perfect spot on a stormy day, protected from the swell and the wind. You may find a lot of seaweed on the shores, and some leaves on the surface, but the water is usually pretty clean and it’s absolutely stunning.

As it’s an estuary you need to swim at high tide, or a few hours either side – unless you enjoy squelching through mud to reach the very shallow water.

Trelissick is easy to find, just south of Truro, and if you are a National Trust member you can park for free. Just follow the path down from the car park onto Trelissick estate and head left down to the shore.

If the water is very high on a spring tide, there is little beach, but there is a small hut you can change in. In winter this area can get pretty boggy though so wear your wellies.

For those who have lots of time or want to spend the day here, there are several places to swim on the Trelissick estate and up and down the estuary shores. I recommend Roundwood Quay for a picnics or barbecue in the summer months which is about an hour walk from the car park.

Similar spots: another one for a stormy day ~ Trevone Sea Pool