Common Wood

Common Wood sits just outside Chester, a proper working forest where you can actually walk rather than just gawp at scenery from a car park. It's the kind of place where you'll find yourself on decent woodland trails, the ground soft underfoot, plenty of cover when the weather turns - which it will, this being Cheshire.

The woodland itself is mixed deciduous, with paths that meander through without too much fanfare. You won't find fancy signage or a visitor centre. What you get is space to breathe and the chance to actually walk somewhere without bumping into crowds. Spring's when it's best, when the bluebells come through and the whole place feels less like a trudge. Allow a couple of hours if you're taking it seriously, though you can easily do a quickish loop in forty minutes.

It works well for families with older kids who can handle uneven terrain without complaint - younger ones might find it dull after a bit. Walkers will appreciate it as a proper woodland experience rather than a theme park with trees. Dogs absolutely love it.

Staying at one of the nearby parks - Manor Wood or Netherwood are within reasonable distance - this makes a solid half-day outing rather than a destination in itself. Combine it with Chester's town centre and you've got a decent mix. The wood itself is free access, though you should check conditions before heading out. Winter can make paths genuinely boggy.