Allt Fron-goch

The forest at Allt Fron-goch sits on the edge of Llandysul, sloping down through dense Welsh woodland that feels properly remote despite being minutes from the village. It's the sort of place where you can lose an afternoon wandering between oak and birch, with paths that fork and double back in ways that make you feel like you've discovered something the guidebooks missed.

Walkers will find this genuinely worthwhile. The terrain isn't brutal - more undulating than steep - and the canopy work means it's pleasant even when the weather turns grey, which around these parts is often. You're looking at maybe two hours for a proper exploration, though you could easily do a quick thirty-minute circuit if you're just stretching your legs. The forest opens up in places to give you views over the Teifi Valley, which on a clear day reminds you why people bother living in West Wales at all.

It's free to access and there's no faffing about with car parks or visitor centres. Just turn up. That said, the paths aren't formally maintained, so sturdy boots matter and a map on your phone is sensible. Parents with young kids might find it a touch claustrophobic in places - older children who don't need constant entertainment will have a better time.

If you're based at The Three Spaniels nearby, this makes a proper alternative to the usual forest trails. It's got character that the bigger, more manicured sites sometimes lack.