Clitters Wood

Dense woodland sits just inland from Plymouth, and Clitters Wood delivers the kind of forest walk you actually want to do - not too taxing, properly shaded, and with enough variation to stop it feeling repetitive. The paths wind through a mixture of mature trees and younger growth, with occasional clearings that remind you where you are geographically.

It's the sort of place walkers genuinely enjoy rather than somewhere you tick off a list. The ground can be boggy after rain, which is worth knowing, and the trails aren't signposted brilliantly, so bring a decent map or download a walking app beforehand. Most people spend between one and two hours here depending on which routes they take.

Families with older kids will get on fine - there's enough to explore without feeling like a slog - though younger children might lose interest if the weather turns. The wood itself is free to access, and there's parking nearby, though you'll need to check locally for the current situation as facilities change.

If you're staying at one of the luxury glamping spots like Hidden Hill Devon just a few miles away, this makes an excellent morning or afternoon excursion without needing to drive far. It pairs well with Plymouth's waterfront attractions if you want a day mixing woodland walking with coastal scenery. Go midweek if you can - weekends pull in enough locals that the car parks fill quickly.