National Trust - Parke

The moment you push through the gates at Parke, you're stepping into a working Devon estate that actually feels lived-in rather than museum-like. This National Trust property sprawls across 1,600 acres of rolling parkland and woodland, and what strikes you first is how quiet it is - proper quiet, the kind where you can hear the grass.

The 16th-century farmhouse sits at the heart of things, but honestly, the real draw here is the landscape itself. There are decent walking trails threading through the grounds, ranging from gentle riverside strolls to proper hill climbs with views across towards Newton Abbot and beyond. If you're the type who wants to crack on with some exercise while on holiday, this delivers. Young kids might get restless if they're expecting a playground or tearoom drama - there's minimal fuss here, which some families will love and others won't.

It's free to wander the grounds, though opening hours and access can be a bit variable depending on the season, so check ahead. Allow a couple of hours minimum if you're doing a decent walk, longer if you're lingering by the river. The estate works brilliantly alongside a stay at nearby Oakmoor Touring Park - just two miles away - giving you proper countryside without feeling trapped at the caravan site. Spring's particularly lovely when the woodland's coming alive, though it's worth visiting any time the weather's decent. Bring proper boots though; muddy paths come as standard.