Riding Parks

The forest around Riding Parks, just outside Newton Abbot, is proper woodland terrain - the kind of place where you actually feel like you've stepped away from Devon's busier bits. It's working forest, not manicured parkland, so expect proper trees, tracks that get muddy, and the sort of quiet you don't get near towns.

Walkers will find the most value here. The trails wind through decent stretches of mixed woodland, and if you're after a straightforward forest walk without the crowds of better-known spots, this delivers. It's not dramatic scenery - no views to speak of, no grand vistas - but that's rather the point. You come here for the trees and the peace, not Instagram moments.

Timing-wise, allow a couple of hours for a proper wander. Spring and autumn are best; summer can feel a bit thick and airless under all that canopy, and winter mud is genuine. The site appears to be free access, though it's worth checking locally before you go as these things can change.

If you're based at Oakmoor Touring Park - the upmarket adult-only place just 1.7 miles away - you've got a convenient option for a half-day outing. It slots reasonably into a wider Newton Abbot area holiday, though it's not the sort of draw that'll anchor a whole trip by itself. Better as a leg-stretcher between other activities than a standalone destination.