Brockhole Wood

A proper woodland walk through Devon's quieter side, Brockhole Wood sits just outside Plymouth and feels a world away from the city. The trees here are dense enough that you'll lose the urban noise within minutes - mainly oak and beech, with a decent carpet of moss underfoot when it's been wet. There's something satisfying about a forest that doesn't try too hard. No visitor centre, no gift shop, just woodland paths that loop through at a gentle pace.

For families, it's solid without being spectacular. Kids will enjoy spotting trees and maybe a deer if you're lucky, but there's not enough open space to really tire them out - you're looking at an hour maximum before restlessness sets in. Walkers will appreciate the network of trails that connect through, and it's a genuine breath of fresh air if you're staying near Plymouth and want to escape the sprawl.

The canopy work is decent for photography in autumn, and the forest floor smells like proper woodland - damp earth, decomposing leaves, that sort of thing. Spring's nice too, though muddy. You'll want proper boots either way.

If you're based at Hidden Hill Devon's glamping site nearby, this makes an easy half-morning walk to break up the day. Nothing transformative, but it does what it says on the tin - quiet trees, space to think, and a decent chance of peace. Bring a map if you're exploring beyond the main paths.