Beer Wood

A proper woodland walk rather than a manicured tourist trap, Beer Wood sits inland from the South Devon coast near Kingsbridge and delivers exactly what it promises - trees, paths, and the kind of quiet you don't get from seafront spots. The forest floor is soft underfoot, roots and leaf litter making it feel genuinely wild despite being accessible enough for families who can manage uneven terrain. You'll find a mix of ancient oak and conifer, with shafts of light filtering through in ways that make you understand why people actually liked being in forests before Instagram existed.

This works best if you're the sort who wants a 90-minute walk without needing facilities, a cafe, or anything pointing at you. Older kids and actual hikers will get more from it than toddlers. Allow two hours to properly wander without rushing, though you can do a shorter loop if time's tight. The woodland feels best in autumn when the canopy thins out and you can actually see through the trees rather than being boxed in by summer green.

If you're camping at South Devon Camping at Lower Terawhiti Farm or glamping over at Hidden Hill, both within striking distance, Beer Wood makes a solid half-day outing when you want something quieter than the coastal walks but don't fancy another hour in the car. Kingsbridge is your nearest town for supplies, about fifteen minutes' drive. Admission's free, opening hours are dawn to dusk, and you'll be in and out without paying a penny.