Fox Covert Wood

Ancient footpaths wind through this pocket of woodland just outside Preston, where generations of local walkers have carved routes between mature oak and beech trees. Fox Covert Wood feels properly wild despite its proximity to the M6 - you'll hear traffic in the distance but lose sight of the modern world entirely once you're properly among the trees.

Families with energetic kids will find plenty of scrambling opportunities over fallen logs and through the undergrowth, though pushchair access is virtually impossible on the muddier paths. The wood comes alive in spring when bluebells carpet the forest floor, making it well worth timing your visit for late April or early May.

Dog walkers dominate the scene most mornings, and rightly so - this is proper countryside within easy reach of Preston's suburbs. Allow an hour for a decent wander, though you could easily stretch it to two if you're keen on spotting wildlife or letting children burn off energy.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Orchard Glamping or Gibsons Barn Caravan Park puts Fox Covert Wood within easy striking distance for a morning constitutional. It's the sort of place that proves Lancashire's countryside credentials without requiring a major expedition - just wellies and a sense of direction.