Norman's Brake

Dense woodland stretches across the hillsides just outside Ilfracombe, offering a proper escape from the coastal crowds. Norman's Brake is one of those lovely pockets of ancient Devon forest where you can lose yourself among towering beech and oak trees, with dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above.

Walkers will find plenty to explore here, though don't expect waymarked trails or visitor facilities. This is raw countryside at its finest - muddy paths wind through the undergrowth, and you'll need decent boots, especially after rain. The forest feels genuinely wild, with birdsong your main soundtrack and the occasional glimpse of deer if you're quiet enough.

Families staying at nearby holiday parks like Ruda or Golden Coast will find it a good contrast to beach days, though younger children might get restless without clear destinations. The terrain can be challenging, so it's better suited to confident walkers and nature lovers who appreciate unspoilt woodland.

Allow a couple of hours for a proper ramble, longer if you're the type to stop and identify every bird call. Spring brings bluebells and fresh green leaves, while autumn offers spectacular colour. It's the sort of place that reminds you why Devon's countryside remains so special - no gift shops or interpretation boards, just you and several centuries of unmanaged forest.