Cann Woods

The woods sprawl across a decent chunk of land between Plymouth and Dartmoor proper, all ancient oaks and streams that actually feel like you've stepped back a century. It's proper walking territory - the kind of place where you can lose an hour without realising it, which is either brilliant or annoying depending on your mood and shoe choice.

Cann Woods works best for people who actually like walking rather than just saying they do. There's real woodland here, not manicured paths - you'll want decent boots and a bit of map sense. Kids will enjoy it if they're the type to build dens and hunt for interesting sticks; younger ones might find it a touch tedious after thirty minutes of "are we there yet?" The streams are the main draw, to be honest. They're genuinely lovely if the weather's been kind.

If you're staying at Dartmoor Domes just down the road, this is an ideal morning or afternoon slot - close enough that you won't waste time driving, far enough into proper woodland that it feels like an escape. It won't take up your whole day, but it's the sort of place that justifies the detour if you're after a proper walk without heading right up onto the moor itself.

Free to access, as far as anyone can tell. Go when it's been dry for a bit - the ground gets absolutely boggy otherwise.