Robert's Brake

A proper woodland walk rather than a manicured attraction, Robert's Brake sits just inland from Plymouth and delivers exactly what it promises - dense forest, quiet paths, and the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think. The main pull is the network of trails threading through ancient woodland, with enough variation to keep a half-day outing interesting without being punishing.

It's strongest for walkers who want solitude rather than Instagram moments. Families with younger kids might find the paths a bit muddy and unmarked in places, though older children who enjoy orienteering or a genuine woodland ramble will get on fine. History types won't find much here - this is nature for its own sake, which is refreshing.

Allow two to three hours if you want to do the main loops properly. There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring water and wear decent boots. Free to access as far as I can establish, though it's worth checking locally given the opening hours situation.

For a broader Devon park holiday, this works nicely as a morning mission before heading to Hidden Hill's glamping setup a few miles away - somewhere to shake off the drive and get properly into the countryside before settling in for an evening near Plymouth. The contrast between woodland walking and hot-tub relaxation is exactly the sort of balance that makes a proper break work.