Huish Plantation

The woodland around Huish Plantation near Bideford is proper forest - the kind where you actually feel like you've left the North Devon coast behind, even though you're only minutes inland. Tall conifers tower overhead, blocking out the sky in places, and the ground stays soft underfoot whatever the weather's done the day before.

It's a walker's spot rather than a destination where you'll spend hours. A good two-hour circuit through the trees clears the head, though you won't find any visitor facilities or marked trails to speak of - this is more a local's haunt than a proper tourist attraction. Families with older kids who don't mind getting mud on their trainers will have a fine time; younger ones might struggle with the lack of obvious 'things to do'. It's free, naturally.

What makes it worthwhile is the contrast. You're staying at places like Braddicks Holiday Park or Owl Valley Glamping, both within striking distance, and instead of pottering around seaside shops in Bideford you can actually stretch your legs under proper woodland canopy. The autumn light filtering through the branches is worth noting - much better than any summer visit when it's just a green tunnel.

Don't expect signposting or visitor information boards. Phone ahead to local tourist info in Bideford if you need specifics. It's the sort of place where you either know what you're looking for or you stumble upon it while exploring the back lanes. Either way, it serves the purpose - a genuine bit of Devon woodland that hasn't been tarted up for visitors.