Watkins Wood

A proper woodland walk rather than a formal attraction, Watkins Wood sits just outside South Brent and delivers exactly what you'd hope for - ancient trees, decent paths, and enough peace and quiet to actually hear yourself think. The woodland itself is mixed deciduous, with plenty of moss-covered trunks and the kind of dappled light that makes you understand why people bang on about forests.

You're looking at an hour to ninety minutes here depending on how slowly you amble. It's straightforward walking - no scrambling or technical bits - which makes it solid for families with kids aged five and up. The ground can be boggy after rain, so wellies aren't a bad shout. The paths are well-trodden enough that you won't get lost, though nothing is signposted with neon arrows.

What makes it work is the lack of crowds. You'll genuinely be alone most days. It's the kind of place where you go to clear your head rather than tick off a box, which sounds pretentious but honestly matters when you're on holiday.

If you're staying at South Devon Camping over at Lower Terawhiti Farm - about six miles away - this is a proper alternative to the big name attractions. You can combine it with a walk around South Brent's moorland edges or head towards Dartmoor proper. Free to access, no visitor centre nonsense, just trees and air.