West Pinkworthy Wood

The woodland floor at West Pinkworthy is thick with moss and bracken - proper springy underfoot after rain. It's a small forest tucked inland from Tiverton, the sort of place you'd drive past without realising what you're missing. Ancient woodland, dense and quiet, with a network of paths that loop through oak and beech without ever feeling overcrowded.

You're looking at a solid hour's walk if you want to do the main trails properly, though there's nothing demanding about it. The canopy's thick enough to feel like proper forest rather than managed parkland - there's a sense of privacy even when others are about. Kids tend to enjoy it if they're past the pushchair stage; enough mud to explore, enough fallen logs to clamber over, though don't expect obvious attractions or waymarked loops.

If you're staying at Nirvana Glamping nearby - only a couple of miles down the road - this makes a straightforward morning outing. The walking's gentle enough for families, interesting enough for anyone who likes old woodland ecology. Spring's the best time, when bluebells carpet the floor, though honestly it's pleasant year-round unless it's been raining heavily enough to make the paths properly boggy.

It's free to access and there's no faffing about with car parks or opening hours - you just turn up. Don't expect facilities or information boards. Bring a map or download a walk beforehand, because signage is minimal and it's easy to lose the main path if you're not paying attention.