The Ride

The Ride is a proper forest walk just outside West Hill in Devon, and it's one of those spots where you forget how close you are to civilisation. The woodland path winds through mature trees with enough dappled light to keep things interesting without feeling claustrophobic. You'll find yourself on a gentle gradient most of the time, which means it suits families with younger legs just as well as it does keen walkers after a proper stride.

What makes it work is the sheer peace of it. No gift shop, no car park queuing drama, just trees and birdsong and the occasional person nodding hello. The walk takes a couple of hours depending on your pace and which branches you follow, but you can do shorter loops if you're not feeling ambitious. Spring's lovely when the bluebells are out, though honestly it's decent most of the year.

If you're staying at Cuckoo Down Farm Glamping nearby - and it's worth the stay, about two miles away - this slots perfectly into a morning before heading elsewhere. It's the kind of place that clears your head without demanding your full attention, which counts for something after a week in holiday parks. Free to access, no permits needed. Fair warning: the ground can be boggy in patches after rain, so waterproof boots are sensible rather than optional. Worth a morning of your time, though don't expect dramatic vistas or anything Instagram-worthy.