Brickclamps Wood

The woodland around Stevenage isn't exactly famous, but Brickclamps Wood delivers what you want from a proper forest walk without any faffing about. It's a decent chunk of mixed woodland - the sort of place where you'll find yourself on actual trails rather than people-herding paths, which makes a refreshing change.

You're looking at a straightforward woodland circuit, ideal if you've got an afternoon to kill or you're camped nearby at Church Farm Ardeley and want to stretch your legs. The trees are thick enough that you feel properly removed from the suburban sprawl of Stevenage, even though you're only minutes away. Spring's particularly good here when the woodland floor wakes up - bluebells if you time it right.

It's not a challenging walk, which suits families fine, though younger kids might find it all a bit samey after forty minutes or so. No great views or dramatic drops, just straightforward woodland rambling. Allow ninety minutes max for a full loop, less if you're just doing a quick spin.

Free access, naturally, and you won't need any special facilities - it's basic but functional. The real value is having actual woodland on your doorstep when you're staying at Church Farm Ardeley. Pair it with a walk around the farm itself and you've got a solid morning sorted. Not worth a special trip from London, but perfectly decent for a local break.