Kempleton Plantation

Kempleton Plantation is a proper working forest in Dumfries and Galloway, spread across decent-sized woodland just a few miles from Kirkcudbright. It's the kind of place where you can lose a morning walking between the trees without seeing another soul - which is exactly the point. The plantation has well-maintained paths threading through mixed woodland, giving you decent views over the surrounding countryside if you pick the right route. Bring decent boots though. After rain it gets muddy in places, and the paths aren't manicured promenades.

Walkers get the most from Kempleton. There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, and it's not a destination for kids who need play areas and ice cream vans. But if you want a quiet forest walk before or after exploring Kirkcudbright's art galleries and high street, this delivers. The woodland is working landscape rather than ornamental, which some find more rewarding than a managed country estate. Allow two to three hours depending on how many of the paths you fancy tackling.

It's free to access, which is a bonus. The plantation works brilliantly alongside a holiday park stay in the area - Domes by the Sea or Solway View Holidays are both nearby and highly rated, putting you within easy striking distance for a proper morning ramble. Go in autumn when the light filters through the changing leaves. Summer can feel a bit dull in comparison. Winter's fine if you don't mind muddy underfoot.