Mill Woods

The woodland at Mill Woods, just outside Bideford, is the sort of place you stumble into and immediately wonder why it isn't rammed with visitors. Ancient trees tower overhead, creating that proper deep-forest quiet you rarely find these days. The paths are well-maintained and easy enough for families, though it gets muddy after rain so bring decent boots.

It's woodland walking rather than a major attraction - you won't find visitor centres or gift shops here. What you get instead is peace, dappled light, and the occasional glimpse of the Torridge River winding through the trees. Allow a couple of hours to properly wander without rushing. Early morning or late afternoon is best if you want the place to yourself, which you probably will.

This works brilliantly as a leg-stretch between staying at one of the nearby glamping spots like Coastal Cabins or Atlantic Horizons. Both are within easy reach, meaning you can base yourselves somewhere comfortable and come here for a break from the beach or seaside towns. Kids will manage the paths fine, though they might lose interest unless they're the type who genuinely enjoy splashing through streams and spotting wildlife.

Access appears to be free and open year-round, making it a proper no-fuss option. It's not Cornwall's showiest woodland walk, but that's rather the point - genuine trees doing their thing, no performance about it.