Lomg Wood

You won't find signs or visitor facilities at Long Wood - it's simply a stretch of proper woodland on the edge of Crediton that locals have walked through for years. The trees are tall enough to feel like you've stepped away from the town entirely, which for a 20-minute stroll is exactly what you need.

It's ideal for families after a quick forest walk without faffing about with car parks or entry fees. The paths are decent underfoot though muddy patches appear after rain. Kids will enjoy the sense of adventure even if there's no playground or tea room waiting at the end. Walkers doing longer loops through the Devon countryside can cut through here to break up road walking, and if you're staying at Yeatheridge Farm Caravan Park just down the road, it's worth a morning wander before breakfast.

There's nothing dramatic about Long Wood - no waterfall, no ancient monument, no spectacular views. What you get is shade, birdsong, and some quiet time amongst the oaks and chestnuts. That's enough if you manage expectations. On a fine day in spring it's worth the detour from Crediton town centre. Winter's drearier and summer can feel a bit close in the canopy, but autumn is proper lovely here.

Allow an hour if you're combining it with a longer walk, or 20 minutes if you just need to stretch your legs between caravan duties.