The Harpyards

The Harpyards is a proper woodland walk just outside Honiton, the kind of place where you actually feel like you've left the town behind despite being minutes away. It's genuinely forested - tall trees, dappled light, and enough space to lose the afternoon without needing a map or a guidebook.

What you get here is straightforward: woodland paths, peace and quiet, and the chance to stretch your legs without any fuss. There are no visitor facilities to speak of, no gift shop, no staged experiences. It's just forest. For walkers it's ideal - you can potter about for an hour or go longer depending on how deep into the trees you want to venture. Families with kids who actually like being outdoors will find it fine, though there's nothing specifically designed to hold a four-year-old's attention for hours.

Access appears to be free, and there's no formal opening hours - it's the kind of place you visit when it suits you. Early morning or late afternoon are when the light works best and you'll likely have it to yourself.

If you're staying at Hartridge Springs Spa Glamping nearby, this is a solid way to break up a morning before heading back for a soak. It complements a park holiday well because it's genuinely low-key - no queues, no need to book, no pressure. Just go for a walk if you feel like it. Some people will find that refreshingly simple. Others might want something with a bit more structure.