Cliff Walk Wood

The path through Cliff Walk Wood winds between tall pines and coastal scrubland, dropping down toward the cliffs above Bideford Bay. It's a proper walk rather than a gentle stroll - the ground's uneven in places, tree roots catch your feet, and there are some steep sections that'll have your calves working. Allow a good hour to do it justice, longer if you stop to catch your breath at the viewpoints.

What makes it worthwhile is the sudden openness when you reach the cliff edge. The views south along the Devon coast are genuinely excellent, particularly on a clear day when you can pick out Hartland Point. In autumn and early spring the light through the trees is lovely, though midday in summer it's just dense shade - come morning or late afternoon instead.

Families with capable walkers (eight-plus, realistically) will get the most from it. Younger kids might find the lack of facilities and the uneven terrain frustrating after twenty minutes. If someone in your group struggles with steep ground, give it a miss. It's the sort of walk that appeals to people who actually like walking rather than those after a quick photo opportunity.

Based just over a mile away at Roeys Retreat Campsite, you're perfectly placed to tackle this one before breakfast. Coastal Cabins Glamping and Broad Park offer slightly more cushioned bases if you want a less rugged setup. The wood connects reasonably well with other coastal walks around Bideford, so you could string together a proper day out. Admission's free - it's just open access woodland.