Hellinghay Wood

You'll find yourself walking under a proper cathedral of oak and beech the moment you step into Hellinghay Wood. It's the kind of forest that makes you forget Devon's coast exists - all dark soil paths, dappled light, and the occasional surprise of a stream cutting through. The wood is dense enough that you lose your bearings quickly, which is either brilliant or maddening depending on your mood.

This is walkers' territory, full stop. The canopy is thick enough to keep things cool even in summer, and the ground stays reasonably firm unless it's been hammering with rain for days. You're looking at anything from a quick thirty-minute ramble to a couple of hours if you're the type who stops to examine bark and listen for birds. Dogs love it here - proper off-lead potential once you're confident they'll come back.

Historically curious types might appreciate the old woodland management signs dotted about, though the wood doesn't shout its story. It's just genuinely old, quietly cared for, and less Instagram-bothered than some spots.

The nearest settlement is Devon itself, though South Bay Holiday Park sits about six miles out - a decent base if you're after forest walks combined with proper facilities. Bring a map or download offline; it's easy to wander in circles. Free to access, no gates, no formality. Just show up and walk. Best visited autumn through spring when the leaf litter is thick and you won't overheat on the climbs.