Eller Wood

The woodland around Eller Wood, just south of Northallerton, is the sort of place you stumble into by accident and then can't believe you've never heard of it. Ancient broadleaf forest with proper woodland floor - moss, fallen trees, the lot - it's quiet enough that you might hear nothing but birds and rustling leaves. The paths wind through without much fanfare, which is exactly the point.

This works brilliantly for anyone who wants a proper walk without the crowds. Families with kids who don't need everything signposted and explained will love the freedom to just explore. History types should know this is old woodland, the sort that's been here for centuries, though you won't find interpretation boards spelling it out.

Allow a good hour to two hours depending on how much rambling you fancy. There's no visitor centre or café - bring what you need. The nearest proper facilities are back in Northallerton itself, about five miles away.

If you're staying at Whorlton Pods nearby, this makes an excellent half-day excursion to break up the holiday. It's close enough that you're not burning petrol on a long drive, but far enough into actual woodland that it feels like proper escape. Go early on a weekday morning if you can. The whole experience is undermined if you're sharing the paths with weekend crowds.