Pulshayes Copse

A proper woodland walk rather than a destination in itself, Pulshayes Copse sits just outside Honiton and offers the sort of quiet forest retreat you stumble upon by accident. Mature trees create decent shade, and the understory is thick enough that you feel properly removed from the surrounding countryside even though you're only minutes from town.

It's ideal if you're staying at Hartridge Springs Spa Glamping and fancy a gentle morning stroll before breakfast, or need to burn off restless energy without committing to a full fell walk. The paths are reasonably well-trodden but can get muddy after rain - trainers will do, though proper boots are worth considering. You're looking at 45 minutes to an hour for a decent loop depending on how you navigate it.

Families with young children will get maybe 30 minutes of genuine interest before the woods all start looking the same and someone demands a snack. Older kids and serious walkers will appreciate it more. There's nothing dramatic about the landscape - no sudden vistas, no dramatic drops - which is either its charm or its limitation depending on what you're after.

The free admission and proximity to Honiton make it an easy add-on rather than a reason to visit the area. Best visited mid-morning when light filters through properly and you're less likely to meet large groups. Don't expect facilities or marked viewpoints. Bring a map or download the route beforehand.