Henroost Wood

A proper woodland walk that doesn't require a map degree to navigate. Henroost Wood sits just outside Plymouth and offers the kind of dense, quiet forest you'd think doesn't exist this close to a city. The paths wind through mature trees - mostly oak and birch - with enough dappled light coming through to make you feel properly away from it all, even though the urban sprawl's barely two miles off.

It's straightforward enough for families with older kids, though younger ones might find the uneven terrain a bit much. The walk itself takes 45 minutes to an hour if you meander and actually look at things. What you're after here is atmosphere rather than views or dramatic topography. There are a few decent spots to sit on tree stumps and just listen to the place, which is rarer than you'd think near Plymouth.

I'd come here on an overcast day rather than blazing sun - the wood's dark at the best of times and feels claustrophobic if you're expecting views. Bring decent boots; it gets muddy after rain and stays that way. There's no café or facilities inside, so sort yourself before you go.

If you're staying at Dartmoor Domes nearby, this works as an easy morning walk before heading onto the moor proper. It's not the showpiece attraction you'll Instagram, but that's rather the point.