With the never-ending recession forever reducing our holiday allowances, travelling abroad is becoming much more of a rarity. Many of us may well be staying in the country and, more depressingly still, in our offices over the next few months. But money shouldn’t be stopping you having some time off – everyone needs a break once in a while, and if budgets are the problem, you might want to consider somewhere a bit closer to home. As temperatures have reached over 30 degrees already this summer in the UK, for once we don’t have to jet off to somewhere exotic to have a pleasant holiday.

Britain is full of undiscovered picturesque sights, from the breathtaking heights and water bodies of the Lake District, to the untamed coasts of Cornwall. More and more people seem to be choosing these UK locations as cheap alternative holiday destinations. One of these holidays will cost about the same as a handful of London theatre tickets and will be just as enjoyable. Cornwall is particularly popular, with its vast amount of national heritage sites, windy beaches and unspoilt countryside. This south-west point has become so popular that now some areas are best to be avoided, tarnished as they have become by tourism. So, here are four hidden-away corners of Cornwall where you can still really find the essence of this region:

1) Penberth Cove

Located in West Cornwall at the far end of a wooded valley, this little cove really is tucked away from civilization. With only a few inhabitants, you really will feel far away from home in this area of the Land’s End peninsular. The cove, which makes a perfect location for a family excursion, has several walks that pass through it.

2) Kit Hill

Standing at 334 metres, Kit Hill dominates the landscape between the River Tamar and Callington. From here, you can see a forty-mile circumference, including both coasts, the gorgeous Tamar Valley, Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor. The spot is also bursting with wildlife and makes a fantastic bird-watching location.

3) The Helford River

This enchanting river is definitely worth a visit while you’re in Cornwall. Rugged and unspoilt, the surrounding areas boast many sights and diversions – ancient villages, such as the picturesque Durgan, Cornish gardens housing sub-tropical New Zealand plants, and even a seal sanctuary.

4) Mousehole

Visiting this attractively named, quaint little hamlet really is like stepping into the past. With its granite-lichened cottages and sheltered bay, where two breakwaters make the sea smooth and peaceful, this is the perfect place to stay – full of character and history. There are places to swim and watch the boats – ideal for a quiet family holiday.

So don’t stay in the city. Although ordering West End theatre tickets may be fun, everyone needs a proper break as well – wherever they are. Cornwall has everything to offer, and you’ll soon feel like you’re worlds away from home without even getting on a plane.