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A group of people walking through woodland by a river in late winter or early spring
A forest bathing demonstration at Lydford Gorge, Devon | © National Trust Images/Mel Peters

Countryside areas in Devon

There's a network of woodland paths and trails to await you in Devon from riverside walks to gentle hill climbs with far-reaching views. Bring the whole family for time in the crisp winter air.

Countryside areas in north Devon and Exmoor

There's plenty of outdoor places to bring the whole family this winter.

Visitors walking at Heddon Valley, Devon
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Heddon Valley 

Explore the wooded river valley reaching inland down to the sea at Heddon's Mouth. Heddon Valley's walking routes include two accessible routes for all-terrain mobility scooters with Tramper.

Man canoeing down river rapids at Watersmeet
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Watersmeet 

From fishing to canoeing, there's an outdoor adventure to suit everyone at Watersmeet. Take a walk through ancient woodland or along the banks of the river.

Visitors enjoy the scenery from the garden at the Buttery Tea Room, Lorna Doone Valley
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Lorna Doone Valley 

Discover this hidden valley in Exmoor, made famous by RD Blackmore in his novel Lorna Doone and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as red deer and Exmoor ponies.

A medieval packhorse bridge surrounded by trees at Horner Wood
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Horner Wood 

Discover Horner Wood, one of the largest ancient oak woods in Britain. Walk, ride or cycle through this National Nature Reserve which is bursting with wildlife.

Two walkers standing next to a rock formation at Dunkery Beacon on the Holnicote Estate
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Holnicote Estate 

Holnicote Estate has something for everyone, from its wild moorland and shingle beaches to ancient woodland and charming villages. Plus, keep an eye out for its resident red deer.

Three mountain bikers cycling through the woods with a dog, near Webber's Post on the Holnicote Estate, Exmoor National Park, Somerset
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Webbers Post 

Explore Webber's Post, Exmoor’s highest point, and enjoy spectacular views over Horner Wood and the wild expanse of moorland stretching up to Dunkery Beacon.

Countryside areas in central and south Devon

Discover a network of paths and trails at countryside places this winter season.

Leaves from a tree with shades of orange and gold
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Ashclyst Forest 

Ashclyst Forest is one of the largest woods in East Devon and a haven for wildlife. It's the perfect place to reconnect with nature whether it's for a family ramble or dog walk.

Recently planted trees in a field at Dunsland
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The estate at Dunsland 

This tranquil, ancient parkland once befitted the grand house that stood in its midst. The park is home to a variety of trees and plenty of resident wildlife.

Granite flagpole base abandoned on Little Trowlesworthy Tor, Cadover Bridge, Devon
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Cadover Bridge 

Enjoy views of Dartmoor and beyond from Cadover Bridge. Walk across rugged moors, discover ancient archaeology and spot wildlife along the way.

A small herd of fallow deer standing in a woodland full of bluebells
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The estate at Castle Drogo 

Follow the winding paths below the castle into the sheltered Teign Gorge. Explore this ancient gorge teeming with wildlife on trails along the river or soak up views over Dartmoor.

A woodland path scattered with autumn leaves though Holne Woods, Devon.
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Hembury and Holne Woods 

Explore the many trails and paths at Hembury and Holne Woods. From a gentle walk to something a bit more strenuous, you'll discover something to suit your mood.

Autumn trees at Ausewell Woods, Devon
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Ausewell Wood 

Find out more about the rich wildlife and history of the 342-acre Ausewell Wood on Dartmoor in Devon, and the best ways to access it if you’d like to pay a visit.

Visitors taking photos with mobile phones on the viewing platform of the Devil's Cauldron at Lydford Gorge, Devon
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Lydford Gorge 

Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature with a hike through a prehistoric world where the River Lyd crashes, tumbles and trickles around every corner and delights the senses.

Wooden bench in the meadow on a summers day at Bradley, Devon
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Things to do on the estate at Bradley 

Discover the things to see and do on the wider estate at Bradley Manor, which covers 100 acres of hay meadows, old orchards and woodlands. See where you can go with dogs here too.

Small white butterfly on purple chive flower at Parke
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The estate at Parke 

Explore the historic estate of Parke on the edge of Dartmoor. Enjoy walking the maze of paths through the woodland and parkland. Cycle along the old railway track that forms part of the Wray Valley Trail.

The river at Shaugh Bridge reflecting the surrounding trees, Devon
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The woodland at Shaugh Bridge 

Discover ancient oak woodland on Dartmoor. Walk along the River Meavy or explore the upper Plym Valley with the dramatic Dewerstone Rock and industrial ruins.

Two children walk down steps outside at Plymbridge Woods, Devon in the summer
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Plymbridge Woods 

Discover what you can do when visiting Plymbridge Woods, a 'bridge' between rugged open, windswept moorland and the city of Plymouth and the coast.

A view across fields at Lower Halsdon Farm with the sun low in the sky at Exmouth, Devon
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Lower Halsdon Farm 

Lower Halsdon Farm is a working farm owned by the National Trust and tenanted out. Discover walks and family events and enjoy the tea-garden.

All countryside and woodland in Devon

    The South Front and lawn at Knightshayes on a sunny day

    Discover more in Devon

    Journey from wild coasts, moorland and curious historic houses to lush gardens and beaches in Devon.