South Wood

South Wood sits just outside Tiverton and feels like proper Devon woodland - the sort of place where you actually forget you're still relatively close to civilisation. It's a working forest, not some manicured country estate, which means the paths can be muddy and the trees grow as they please rather than in neat rows.

Walking through here you get that classic mixed woodland vibe: beech, oak, the occasional fir. In spring it's carpeted with bluebells, which is lovely, and autumn brings the usual leaf display. There are decent walks to be had - nothing strenuous, but enough to justify an afternoon if you're staying in the area. The woodland floor is soft underfoot, which is either a bonus or a nightmare depending on whether you've been wet lately.

This works best for walkers who enjoy a low-key woodland ramble rather than a destination hike with a view at the end. If you're after playgrounds and facilities you'll be disappointed - it's genuinely just trees and paths. But if you want to escape the seaside holiday crowds and get some forest air, it does the job well.

If you're based at Nirvana Glamping nearby, this is a straightforward morning walk without needing to drive far. Pair it with Tiverton itself for lunch and you've got a decent day sorted. Bring proper walking boots though - it can be boggy.