Deadmansey Wood

The woods around Deadmansey feel properly ancient - old beech and oak that's been here for centuries, the sort of place where you half expect to see a deer bolt across the path. It's east of Dunstable, a genuine working forest rather than a manicured country estate walk, which means the ground can be muddy and the trails aren't always obvious, but that's rather the appeal.

You're looking at a couple of hours wandering through here if you want to do it justice - the canopy is dense enough that it's genuinely cool even on warm days, and the paths wind through without too much fanfare. Bring proper boots. There's no visitor centre or facilities that I'm aware of, so come prepared.

It's the sort of place that appeals to serious walkers and anyone who wants a bit of solitude rather than families after a quick hour out. The trees do the talking here - there's no café, no gift shop, no interpretation boards. Just woodland as it actually is.

If you're camping at Merlin Farm near Whipsnade, this is a convenient extra on your Chiltern Hills itinerary. The zoo and the park itself will keep most visitors busy, but if someone in your group fancies a proper forest walk away from the crowds, Deadmansey delivers. Worth the detour if you're already in the area, though it's not a destination in itself.