Grass Wood Nature Reserve

The woodland here runs thick along the River Wharfe, just outside Skipton, and it's proper worth an afternoon if you're camping nearby at Wharfedale or Wood Nook. You're looking at ancient semi-natural woodland - the sort of place where the canopy gets dark enough that you're actually aware of the seasons changing. The walking is straightforward enough for families, though the paths can get boggy after rain, so wellies aren't a bad shout.

What makes it tick is the geology as much as the trees. There's limestone exposed along the riverbank, and the whole reserve sits on Millstone Grit higher up - the kind of detail that appeals to walkers with a geology interest but won't bore the kids either. You might spot nuthatches or woodpeckers if you're quiet. The river itself is the draw for many - it's accessible in places and genuinely lovely to just sit by.

Allow a couple of hours for a proper circuit rather than rushing through. Spring's exceptional here - the bluebells come thick on the woodland floor. Summer's busier but the shade's welcome on hot days. Autumn colours are solid without being spectacular. It's the sort of place that rewards coming back rather than trying to cram everything in one visit.

Free access, no visitor centre to speak of, just paths and woodland. Close enough to Skipton for grabbing a coffee before or after, and it links well with walking routes along the Wharfe if you want to extend the day.