Deneburn Wood

The walk through Deneburn Wood is a proper antidote to Consett's industrial past. You're threading through mixed woodland where the Dene stream runs constant company, the water tumbling over rocks and creating the sort of backdrop that makes you understand why people bother with forests at all. It's easy enough ground, mostly, though the path can get boggy after rain so don't wear your best trainers.

This isn't a showpiece attraction with facilities or a visitor centre - it's just good, honest woodland. The kind of place where you'll see nothing but trees and water for 45 minutes to an hour, which is either exactly what you want or proof that you should have gone to the coast instead. Walkers love it because the trails are straightforward enough for a casual Sunday amble but long enough to feel like you've actually done something. The stream makes it interesting for kids who enjoy poking about rocks and spotting the odd fish.

There's no admission charge and no specific opening hours because it's proper countryside. Spring's the best bet if you want colour without the full summer crush. If you're staying at Allensford Holiday Park - practically on the doorstep - you can walk here without moving your car, which is a genuine win for a park holiday. The wood won't take your breath away, but it'll unclog your head for a few hours, and that's worth far more than the photographs suggest.