Newpark Wood

Thick woodland stretches across Newpark Wood, just a short drive from Plymouth's sprawl. Walking through here feels like you've properly escaped - birdsong drowns out the city noise within minutes. The forest floor is soft underfoot, dappled light filtering through the canopy, and the trails are straightforward enough that you won't spend ages squinting at a map.

It's ideal for families wanting a gentle woodland walk without the faffing about of visitor centres. Kids tend to enjoy the slightly wild feel of it - fallen logs to clamber over, plenty of moss and ferns, the occasional glimpse of movement in the undergrowth. Plan on an hour or two depending on how leisurely you're feeling. Walkers will find it decent, though it's not dramatic terrain - more about the atmosphere than challenging ascents.

The bonus is proximity to Hidden Hill Devon, the luxury glamping spot just down the road. If you're staying there with the hot tub waiting afterwards, a morning ramble through Newpark Wood works nicely as a pre-breakfast activity. The forest has that genuine, unfussy quality - no entrance fee, no queues, no shop selling overpriced flapjacks. You just turn up and walk. Best visited when it's not been raining heavily; the paths get properly boggy otherwise. Time it for late spring or early autumn when the light is softer and the midges aren't out in full force.