Barholm Wood

Barholm Wood is a proper forest walk just outside Newton Stewart, the kind of place that rewards you for wandering off the main routes. The woodland path takes you through mixed trees - mostly Scots pine and oak - with decent trails that meander through the undergrowth without being overly manicured. You'll find streams running through, which the kids will want to paddle in if you're not quick about it.

It's best suited to families with children old enough to handle forty minutes to an hour of walking without complaint, or anyone keen on a straightforward forest ramble without elevation gain or serious scrambling. The paths are manageable year-round, though they'll be boggy after rain - which, this being Dumfries & Galloway, is fairly often. Allow an hour minimum; two if you're in no rush and fancy exploring the quieter corners.

Go in late spring when the woodland floor hasn't turned into a marsh and the midges haven't woken up proper. Summer's fine too if the weather holds. The real value is as a half-day activity to break up a longer park stay - it's easily done from either Drumroamin Farm or Auchenlarie Holiday Park, both within a short drive. Neither location is crowded, which is the main appeal. If you're after dramatic views or rare wildlife, you'll be disappointed. But for a gentle morning in the woods with decent paths and no fuss? It does the job well.