Bakers Park

A proper slice of Devon countryside just outside Newton Abbot, Bakers Park is a nature reserve that rewards a quiet afternoon walk rather than demanding hours of your time. You're looking at woodland trails threading through mixed trees, open grassland, and - if you time it right - decent birdwatching opportunities. The paths are straightforward enough for families, though they can get muddy after rain, which is most of the time in Devon.

It's the sort of place that appeals to people who actually want to walk rather than just take photos at a viewpoint. If you're camping nearby - Dornafield is barely two miles away - this makes a good half-day leg-stretcher between breakfast and lunch. The reserve isn't going to blow your mind with dramatic vistas, but it's genuinely pleasant, quiet, and free from the kind of crowds you'll hit at bigger attractions.

Bring proper footwear and don't expect facilities beyond what nature provides. Allow an hour or so unless you're really into spotting every bird species, in which case settle in for two. Winter and spring are best for wildlife; summer can feel a bit flat. The real value here is in doing absolutely nothing strenuous while still feeling like you've had a proper outing. It sits nicely alongside a week based around the other holiday parks in the area - Brownscombe and The Smithy are close enough for a day trip if you're staying further out.