Bovey Down Woods

The woodland walk through Bovey Down Woods, just inland from Seaton, is one of those proper Devon stretches where you can actually hear yourself think. Ancient broadleaf trees, dappled light, and paths that wind through what feels like untouched countryside - though you're never more than a couple of miles from the coast.

It's a walker's spot, fundamentally. Nothing flashy, no visitor centre or café, just trees and air and the occasional bird. The terrain is gentle enough for families who don't mind a slow pace, but it's not a toddler playground - you'll need legs that can manage a good hour or two to get anything out of it. The woodland changes with the seasons; spring brings proper woodland floor activity, autumn turns the canopy into something worth the drive alone.

Bring wellies from October through March. The paths get boggy and it's easy to misjudge after rain. Summer's the safe bet if you want dry feet, though you'll share the space with more people.

If you're based at Beer Head Holiday Park or Oakdown up the road, this is an ideal escape when the caravan site feels too social. It's free, naturally, and you can spend as little as 45 minutes or ramble for half a day depending on mood. Nothing revolutionary - but that's rather the point. Sometimes you just want woods.