Dark Wood

The name alone puts some people off, but Dark Wood near Carlisle is actually rather lovely - a proper forest walk that lives up to its dramatic billing without being the least bit sinister. Towering conifers block out the sky in places, creating that deep woodland atmosphere, but there's nothing spooky about it once you're in there. The paths are well-maintained and easy enough for families, though it can get muddy after rain so decent boots help.

You're looking at a couple of hours maximum for a decent circuit, which makes it ideal for breaking up a caravan holiday rather than an all-day commitment. The walk has real purpose to it - you're properly among trees, not just strolling round a managed park. If you're staying at Low Moor Head Caravan Park, it's just six miles away, close enough for a morning outing before heading elsewhere.

The forest works best for walkers who actually want to walk, rather than families after playground facilities or cafe stops. Kids who grumble about "boring trees" will find it tedious. But if you've got teenagers or adults who enjoy genuine woodland, this delivers. There's something about the quiet under that canopy that makes the usual park attractions feel a bit thin.

Free to access, naturally - just turn up and get on with it. Go midweek if you can, when you'll have the place nearly to yourself.