The Forest of Dean had somehow escaped me for nearly 70 years. A few days exploring its ancient woodland, panoramic viewpoints, superb cycling trails and outstanding food at the Tudor Farmhouse Hotel proved just how wrong I'd been.

Looking for one of Devon's best cycling routes? The Exe Estuary Trail offers a largely traffic-free ride between Exeter and Exmouth, passing estuary wildlife, picturesque villages, cafés and spectacular riverside scenery.