Brankenwall Plantation

The woodland at Brankenwall Plantation sits just outside Holmrook, a proper surprise if you're staying nearby at Fisherground Campsite. It's the kind of place where you can actually breathe - tall conifers overhead, soft needle carpet underfoot, and enough space to lose the crowds that pile into the honeypot walks.

What you get here is straightforward: a chance to walk through managed forest without fanfare or facilities. There's no visitor centre, no interpretation boards, just trees and quiet. The paths wind through different sections of planting, some older stands mixed with younger growth, and if you time it right you'll spot deer or catch sight of red squirrels in the branches. Bring proper boots if it's been wet - the ground holds moisture under that dense canopy.

Walkers will get the most from this. Families with young kids might find the lack of facilities a bit limiting, especially if someone needs a toilet halfway round. Allow an hour or so for a gentle loop, longer if you want to explore the deeper sections. There's no entry fee that I'm aware of, though you should check locally as forestry sites can change hands.

It works well as a break from campsite routine if you're at Fisherground - close enough to pop out for a morning walk, far enough to feel like proper woodland rather than managed parkland. The real charm here is that it hasn't been tarted up for tourism. For quiet, honest forest walking in Cumbria, it does the job.