Knowles Wood

The woodland around Honiton isn't flashy, but Knowles Wood delivers what a proper forest walk should: quiet footpaths, towering trees, and the kind of peace that doesn't feel forced. You're walking through Devon's working landscape here, not some manicured nature reserve. The wood itself is dense in places, with established oaks and birches creating a green tunnel effect on damper days. It's the sort of place where you notice things - moss on stones, birds you've never seen before, the particular smell after rain.

Walkers will find the most value here. The terrain isn't technical, but it's proper woodland walking, which means muddy boots and uneven ground. Young children might manage short stretches, but they'll probably get bored without a specific destination in mind. Older kids doing their forest-school thing or teenagers wanting to escape phones will get something out of it. History buffs won't find much, but that's almost the point.

Allow an hour to ninety minutes depending on how far you push in. There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring water and check the weather. Free to access as far as anyone can tell.

If you're based at Hartridge Springs Spa Glamping nearby, this works as a morning walk to clear the head before heading somewhere with more facilities. It won't be the highlight of your holiday, but it'll be the bit you remember most clearly.