Berwick Hall Wood

A decent woodland walk east of Braintree, Berwick Hall Wood gives you proper forest without the faffing about that comes with some of Essex's more manicured country estates. The trees are thick enough that you forget you're in the Home Counties, and there's enough path network to keep you occupied for a solid hour or two depending on how much wandering you fancy.

It's the sort of place that works well for families with kids old enough to manage uneven ground - nothing dramatic, but enough roots and dips to keep them engaged. Dog walkers seem to like it, and if you're staying at Hill Farm campsite just down the road, it's a genuine bonus for burning off some energy before dinner.

The woodland itself is fairly typical Essex - mixed broadleaves with patches of open ground. No dramatic vistas or grand finale, which means you're really here for the walk itself rather than ticking off a view. Go when the canopy's full in summer and it's genuinely cool underfoot. Winter's bleaker and the paths get boggy in places.

Free to access, no facilities that we could find, so bring water if you're planning more than a quick circuit. Realistically, a couple of hours maximum unless you're doing laps. It slots in nicely if you're basing yourself at the campsite and want something beyond the caravan park itself - not a destination on its own, but a proper little escape.