Huntley Wood

Ancient oak and beech trees tower overhead in this proper stretch of Staffordshire woodland, just outside Stoke-on-Trent. Huntley Wood feels surprisingly wild for somewhere so close to the Potteries - you'll forget the A50 exists once you're deep among the bracken and birdsong.

Walkers get the best deal here, with several informal paths winding through the trees. The terrain's fairly gentle, though muddy patches are guaranteed after rain. Dog owners love it too - plenty of space for hounds to sniff about off-lead, though keep an eye out for cyclists who also use some of the wider tracks.

Families with young children might find it a bit samey after an hour or so. There's no playground or café, just trees and more trees. But for a proper ramble and some fresh air, it does the job well enough.

Timing matters here. Spring brings bluebells and fresh green leaves, while autumn turns the canopy into a cracking display of golds and russets. Winter walks have their own appeal if you don't mind the mud.

Perfect for stretching your legs if you're staying at nearby Springfields Countryside Caravan Park or Hales Hall. The wood makes a decent morning outing before heading to the bigger attractions around Alton Towers - several camping sites like Lower Micklin Touring Park put you within easy reach of both the forest and the theme park thrills.