Boutham Moor Wood

The woodland around Boutham Moor, just outside Lincoln, is proper walking country - the sort of place you stumble into expecting nothing much and find yourself two hours in without realising. It's mixed deciduous forest, the kind that feels like it's been here for centuries, with enough paths winding through to keep you occupied whether you've got half an hour or a full afternoon.

Walkers will get the most from this one. The terrain is gentle enough for families who don't mind a bit of mud underfoot, but there's enough woodland to explore that you won't feel trapped on a main drag. History types might find something in the bones of the place - Lincolnshire's got layers - though this is more about the walk than any particular landmark you'll tick off.

The beauty of Boutham Moor is how close it sits to Lincoln. If you're based at Hartsholme Country Park campsite, barely half a mile away, this becomes your go-to morning ramble. No need to load the car, just walk out and get into proper trees. The other campsites - Camper UK Leisure Park and Lakeside Touring Caravan Park further afield - make it an easy enough drive if you're staying elsewhere in the area.

Allow an hour minimum if you're serious about it, more if you're the type to sit and listen. Worth checking ahead for access restrictions depending on season, though it reads as the sort of place that stays open year-round. Best visited after dry weather when the paths aren't a bog.