Torrington Wood

The woodland at Torrington is less famous than it deserves to be. You're looking at proper Devon forest - beech and oak mostly, with the undergrowth thick enough that you lose sight of the world beyond the trees within minutes of stepping in. It's the sort of place where you actually hear birdsong instead of traffic, which is rarer than it should be.

Walking here feels genuine rather than manicured. Trails wind through the canopy with enough incline to get your heart going without becoming a slog, and the whole experience takes as little or as long as you fancy - two hours is comfortable, but you could happily spend longer if you're the foraging or wildlife-spotting type. The nearest proper town is Bideford, just up the road, so it works well as part of a broader Devon break rather than a destination trip on its own.

Families with decent walkers will have a fine time. Younger kids might find an hour enough before they start asking when you're turning back, so manage expectations accordingly. The real draw here is getting away from the tourist trail - this isn't Dartmoor or the more celebrated beauty spots. It's just good, honest woodland where you can actually think.

If you're staying at Owl Valley Glamping nearby, it's absolutely worth the short drive. The forest gives you a proper walk without needing to drive an hour to reach the Peak District. Admission appears to be free, which sweetens the deal considerably.