Buckley's Copse

A proper forest walk rather than a beauty spot, Buckley's Copse sits just outside Tiverton and delivers exactly what you'd want from a woodland escape in Devon. The trees are dense enough to feel properly secluded, and the paths wind through a genuine working forest - not a manicured nature reserve. You'll see mature broadleaves, plenty of undergrowth, and the kind of peace that makes you remember why you left the town behind.

It's ideal for walkers who actually enjoy forests rather than tourists after Instagram shots. Families with young kids will manage fine if they're decent on their feet, though there's nothing particularly spectacular to hold their attention if they're expecting a playground atmosphere. Bird watchers and anyone keen on spotting woodland wildlife will have better luck here than at more visited spots - the lack of crowds means the wildlife doesn't bolt at the first rustle.

Allow an hour to ninety minutes depending on how much you want to potter about. There's no admission charge as far as anyone can tell, and no visitor facilities to speak of, so come prepared with water and proper footwear - the paths get boggy after rain.

It works brilliantly as a morning walk if you're based at Nirvana Glamping or Waterrow Touring Park nearby. Neither park is far away, so you can combine it with other Tiverton activities without making a special trip. On its own it's not a destination, but as part of a wider holiday exploring mid-Devon woodland, it's absolutely worth the detour.