Foxdown woods

Foxdown Woods sits on the edge of Bideford, a proper slice of Devon woodland that doesn't need fanfare to be worth your time. The trees here are dense - oak and beech mostly - and the paths wind through without being fussed about, which means you get proper peace rather than a manicured experience.

It's ideal for walkers after something low-key. The terrain isn't brutal, so families with older kids won't struggle, though younger ones might find the muddy sections tricky in winter. There's no visitor centre or cafe, so bring water. Allow 90 minutes to two hours if you want to do a decent loop without rushing.

The woodland opens onto views across to the Torridge valley, and on a clear day you can see why people settle around here. It's the sort of place that's genuinely better in autumn when the light filters through properly and the ground cover changes colour. Summer brings the flies out, which is less charming.

If you're staying at Owl Valley Glamping nearby, this is genuinely worth the short drive. It breaks up a park-based week without demanding much effort. Bideford itself has better cafes and pubs if you want to make a half-day of it, but the woods themselves are the draw. Free to roam, no booking needed, just turn up and walk.