Down Wood

Down Wood sits just outside Tavistock, a proper Cornish woodland that punches above its weight for a quick walk without the tourist crowds. It's the kind of place locals know and visitors stumble upon by accident - dense trees, mossy paths, and enough quiet to actually hear yourself think.

The forest itself is ancient, with gnarled oaks and a stream running through that's genuinely lovely in spring when the water's high. You're not looking at dramatic viewpoints or manicured trails here. Instead it's about stepping into something genuinely wild - the sort of woodland that hasn't been turned into a visitor attraction with a gift shop. The paths are uneven and root-heavy, so proper boots matter.

Walkers will get the most from this. It's ideal for an hour or so if you're staying nearby, or a longer ramble if you've got the afternoon free. Not one for small children unless they're the adventurous type who don't mind getting muddy and can handle uneven ground.

Free to access, no visitor centre, no facilities - just you and the trees. If you're based at Sunnyside Eco Glamping or Woodovis Holiday Park, both just down the road, this makes a cracking addition to your daily walk list. Go early in the day to avoid what little foot traffic there is. Worth the detour if you want something genuine rather than another nature reserve with signage.