Posbury Copse

You won't find many people who've heard of Posbury Copse, which is rather the point. This small woodland sits just outside Exeter, close enough for an afternoon walk but far enough to feel properly away from it all. The forest itself is typical Devon woodland - mixed broadleaves, plenty of shade, the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think.

It's best suited to walkers after a gentle stomp rather than serious hikers. The paths meander through the trees without any dramatic elevation or scrambling, so families with younger kids manage fine, though there's nothing spectacular enough to keep them entertained for more than an hour or so. If you're after wild woodland atmosphere rather than manicured walks, this delivers.

Since admission isn't formally charged and opening hours appear unrestricted, you can pop in whenever suits. Allow 30-45 minutes for a decent circuit, longer if you're in no rush. Spring brings bluebells, which lifts it from pleasant to proper lovely.

For a park holiday in the area, it works as a half-day filler between Sunsets & Marshmallows or Barley Meadow - near enough to nip out from either site without major faff. Pair it with a visit into Exeter itself and you've got a solid morning sorted. It's not going to be the highlight of your trip, but it's exactly the kind of local forest that makes a holiday feel less touristy and more like actually living somewhere.