Smith's Copse

Dense woodland stretches across the hillside just inland from Ilfracombe, offering a proper escape from the coastal crowds. Smith's Copse is one of those spots that doesn't shout about itself - no visitor centre, no marked trails, just ancient trees and the sound of your own footsteps on leaf litter.

Families with older children who fancy a woodland adventure will find plenty to explore here. The terrain can be a bit rough underfoot, so it's not ideal for pushchairs or very young ones. Dog walkers absolutely love it - acres of space to let their pets roam safely away from cliff edges.

What makes this patch of Devon countryside special is its wildness. You won't find interpretive boards or waymarked paths, which means it feels genuinely untamed. The canopy provides welcome shade on hot summer days when the beaches around Woolacombe become unbearable.

Allow an hour or two if you're planning a proper wander. Spring brings bluebells and fresh green leaves, while autumn turns the whole copse into a riot of colour. Winter visits have their own charm - bare branches reveal views you'd miss in leafier months.

Staying at Golden Coast Holiday Park or one of the other sites around Woolacombe? This makes a lovely morning detour before heading to the beach, especially if the weather's looking changeable.