Bull Spinney

A proper woodland walk rather than a destination in its own right, Bull Spinney sits just outside Leicester and makes a solid addition to a Northamptonshire or East Midlands park holiday. The forest itself is modest - mature trees, decent paths, the kind of place where you can actually hear birdsong instead of traffic. On a clear day there's enough woodland character to make a morning of it, though honestly it's not going to blow your mind.

Walkers will find it worthwhile. The paths are manageable, muddy after rain but nothing treacherous, and it's the sort of place kids can actually run about without you losing sight of them within thirty seconds. That said, if you're looking for dramatic views or rare species sightings, you'll be disappointed. It's a straightforward walk through decent trees.

Stay at Valley View Escapes - just 1.2 miles away and rated top marks by previous guests - and you've got a quick, car-free woodland leg stretch on your doorstep. Brook Meadow, a bit further out at 5.2 miles, also works if you're basing yourselves there. Combine it with a proper walk at one of the region's bigger parks and you've got a solid day sorted.

Allow an hour, maybe ninety minutes if you're dawdling. Free to access. Go early on a Saturday to avoid the dog walkers, or midweek if you can manage it. Not essential, but if you're staying locally and the weather's decent, it's worth the wander.