Coed Llwyn-y-celyn

A proper woodland walk tucked just inland from Chepstow, Coed Llwyn-y-celyn is one of those forests that feels like it belongs to the locals rather than the tourists. The trees are dense - oak and ash mostly - and the paths wind through clearings where light breaks through in streaks. Nothing flashy, just solid forestry that gets the job done if you want to stretch your legs without the crowds.

Walkers will find the most here. The terrain's manageable rather than challenging, so it suits families with older kids or anyone after a gentle hour-long ramble. Bring a dog if you've got one. The paths are wide enough not to feel hemmed in, though it's the kind of place you'd want to visit on a clearer day - low cloud and it becomes a bit samey. The actual flora isn't exceptional for the area, so come for the walk itself rather than expecting rare species or dramatic vistas.

It's free to access, which counts in its favour. If you're based at Penhein Glamping nearby, it's close enough for a morning outing without the drive, though honestly you'd not rearrange a holiday around it. The real appeal is how it fits into a wider Monmouthshire tour - close to Chepstow's castle and riverside walks, so it's useful as a shorter diversion rather than a destination in itself. Decent for burning an hour between better-known spots.