Yarninknowle Wood

The moment you push through the entrance to Yarninknowle Wood, the traffic noise from Plymouth melts away. You're suddenly in proper woodland - dense canopy, leaf litter underfoot, that earthy smell that makes you remember why you came to Devon in the first place.

It's a straightforward forest walk rather than a themed attraction, which is exactly what makes it work. The paths wind through mixed woodland with enough variety to hold your attention for a good hour or two, depending on how slowly you wander. There's no playground, no visitor centre, no information boards trying to sell you a story - just trees, light filtering through branches, and the occasional bird sound cutting through the quiet.

Families will find it manageable enough for young legs, though it's not flashy enough to keep toddlers entertained for hours. Walkers and anyone after a proper dose of woodland atmosphere will get far more from it. The forest doesn't demand much of you - no steep climbs or technical scrambles - but it rewards a slow pace.

Being barely a mile from Hidden Hill Devon's glamping site means you could easily tack this onto a morning before settling back at the hot tub. It's the sort of place that feels essential when you're staying nearby, less essential if you're driving specifically from Plymouth. Free to enter, naturally, and worth allowing at least ninety minutes if you're not rushing.