Filham Park

You'll want to leave Plymouth heading out towards the countryside where Filham Park sits - a proper nature reserve that feels miles away from the city even though it's barely on its doorstep. The reserve wraps around woodland and open ground, the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think and spot the occasional bit of wildlife if you're patient enough to stop and look.

It's ideal for a gentle morning walk rather than a challenging trek. Families with younger kids will manage it fine, and birdwatchers seem to rate it. The woodland paths are straightforward enough, though muddy after rain - wear proper boots if you've had wet weather.

What makes it worthwhile is the absolute absence of crowds. Come at dawn or mid-week and you'll have the place nearly to yourself. The views aren't dramatic, nothing like Dartmoor's sweeping vistas, but there's something quite restorative about wandering through the trees with just the sound of birds for company.

If you're staying at Hidden Hill Devon's glamping site nearby - and those hot tubs look tempting after a walk - Filham Park makes a solid morning activity before heading back for breakfast. Allow 90 minutes if you're taking your time and actually looking around. Free to visit, far as I can tell, which makes it a no-brainer addition to a Plymouth-based holiday.