Scadson Woods

You won't find crowds at Scadson Woods, which is precisely why you should make the short trip from Paignton. This is proper Devon woodland - mature trees, tangled undergrowth, and the kind of quiet that makes you realise how little of it's left around here. The reserve sits inland from the bay, and it's the sort of place where you actually hear birdsong rather than ice cream vans.

The woodland paths are straightforward enough for families with older kids, though younger ones might find it slow going if they're not into spotting birds or identifying trees. Allow a couple of hours if you want to actually walk it rather than rush through. The real appeal is the chance to see native woodland up close - you're looking at mixed broadleaves, proper wildlife habitat rather than the managed park feel you get elsewhere on the Bay.

If you're staying at Hoburne Devon Bay or Waterside Holiday Park just down the road, this works as a morning walk before heading to the beach. It won't be the highlight of a week's holiday, but as a break from the usual seaside routine it's well worth an hour's detour. The kind of place that reminds you why Devon's woodland matters - and why you should get off the main paths occasionally to see what's actually there.