Manscombe Wood

Walk into Manscombe Wood and you're in proper Devon - ancient woodland that feels like it's been here forever, because it has. The trees close in above you, dappled light filtering through, and suddenly the outside world goes quiet. It's the kind of place where you notice things: moss on north-facing trunks, the smell of leaf mould, the occasional flash of movement in the undergrowth.

This is a walker's spot, without question. The woodland paths wind through without much fanfare - no visitor centre, no interpretation boards. You get what you see. Depending on which route you take, you can spend anything from forty minutes to a couple of hours here. Spring's when it really sings if you can catch bluebells, but honestly it's worth a visit any time the weather's decent. Muddy after rain, mind you.

Families with older kids will enjoy it more than toddlers. There's not a huge amount to do besides walk, observe, and listen. It's not a play-park situation. But if you've got teenagers or you just want somewhere genuinely quiet, it's excellent value - and free, which doesn't hurt.

Stay at one of the holiday parks within a couple of miles - Brownscombe or Parkdean Resorts Torquay are close enough for a morning walk before heading elsewhere. Pair it with a day on the coast nearby. Manscombe Wood is the sort of place that reminds you why you came to Devon in the first place.