Reeve Wood

The woodland around Reeve Wood near Bideford is the sort of place that rewards a proper wander rather than a quick tick-box visit. Ancient trees, dappled light, the occasional stream - it's got all the ingredients for a decent forest walk without the crowds you'd find at better-known beauty spots. Local knowledge helps here, as signage isn't exactly comprehensive, but that's part of the appeal if you're after something genuine rather than manicured.

You're looking at a solid hour or two depending on your pace and how far you venture in. Kids who enjoy scrambling through undergrowth and spotting wildlife will have a field day. Less keen walkers might find themselves restless after a bit. The forest does what it says on the tin - it's a working woodland, not a theme park.

If you're staying at Roeys Retreat or Coastal Cabins (both within a couple of miles), this makes a decent morning activity before heading into Bideford proper for lunch. It'll break up a quiet holiday nicely without demanding much planning. The real value here is that it feels genuinely untouched, which gets rarer by the year. Don't expect visitor facilities or marked trails - bring a map if you're not familiar with the area, wear decent shoes, and you'll be fine. Worth the detour if you're based locally, but probably not worth planning a trip around.