Chample's Copse

The woodland around Chample's Copse feels properly wild - dense enough that you lose the sense of being close to Tiverton, even though you're barely outside town. Ancient oaks tower overhead, their trunks thick with moss and age. It's the sort of place where you genuinely can't predict what you'll find round the next bend: a sudden clearing, a stream cutting through, trees so old they look like they're holding up the sky.

Walking here suits people who want to stretch their legs without committing to a full day hike. An hour's wander through the copse gives you that proper forest atmosphere without the elevation gain you'd get in Exmoor or Dartmoor. Families with young kids do fine on the flatter sections, though the undergrowth can be boggy after rain - wellies aren't optional then. History types will find the woodland itself interesting: these are ancient trees, part of Devon's remaining broadleaf heritage.

Access appears to be unrestricted, and there's no entrance fee. The copse sits within easy striking distance of Nirvana Glamping if you're looking to base yourself nearby - a relaxed morning walk through the trees before heading somewhere else is absolutely doable.

Best visited after rainfall has cleared away the dust, or early morning when you've got a decent chance of spotting wildlife. Don't expect manicured paths or facilities. This is just proper woodland doing what it does.