Forest of Dean

Five thousand acres of ancient woodland stretching across the Herefordshire-Gloucestershire border - that's what you're getting into with the Forest of Dean. This isn't some manicured country estate. It's proper wild forest, the sort of place where you can lose an afternoon without trying.

The main draw is walking, full stop. Miles of trails wind through dense woodland, past streams and clearings where the light cuts through the canopy in brilliant shafts. There's a visitor centre near Coleford with information and facilities, but honestly the forest itself is the attraction. You can spend anything from an hour on a gentle loop to a full day tackling the longer routes. Mountain bikers come here too - there are dedicated trails if you've got a bike.

Historically it's significant - medieval hunting ground, industrial heritage dotted throughout, and you'll spot evidence of old coal mines and iron workings if you know where to look. But unless you're genuinely into industrial archaeology, that's secondary to simply being in the woods.

Families with older kids will thrive here. Younger ones might find the walking a slog depending on temperament. The sites closest to the forest - Bracelands and Greenacres less than two miles away - make brilliant bases for a few days' worth of exploring. Bring proper boots; it gets muddy. Come autumn when the light's lower and the crowds thinner. Peak summer can feel a bit trampled in places.

Admission is free. That alone makes it worth the drive from anywhere in the region.