Docton Mill Woods

The River Torridge cuts through these woods like it owns the place, and frankly, it does. Docton Mill Woods near Bideford is the sort of forest walk that doesn't announce itself - no visitor centre, no café, just proper woodland with a river running alongside and the remains of an old mill tucked away where trees crowd the water. You'll spend most of your time walking the riverside paths, spotting the occasional flash of wildlife and genuinely wondering how many people know this spot exists.

It's genuinely excellent for families with older kids and walkers who want something less manicured than the usual National Trust experience. Younger children will find it a bit muddy and uneven underfoot, especially after rain. The walk itself is fairly gentle, though the paths can be boggy - allow a couple of hours if you're taking it slowly and actually looking about. There's no entrance fee as far as we could tell, and no set hours either, which is refreshing.

What makes it work as part of a park holiday is the proximity to Coastal Cabins and Atlantic Horizons, both within easy reach and rated highly by guests. Roeys Retreat sits a bit further out but still doable. Pop in for a morning ramble, grab lunch back in Bideford, then head to one of those glamping spots for the evening. It's low-key stuff - the kind of walk you won't Instagram endlessly but will genuinely enjoy.