Kennel Wood

Dense woodland stretches for miles around Chester, and Kennel Wood offers proper forest walking without the crowds you'll find at more famous spots. The paths here wind through mixed deciduous trees, creating a lovely canopy that keeps things cool even on warm days. It's the sort of place where you can actually hear birdsong rather than car engines.

Walkers will get the most from this one, particularly if you enjoy exploring without following marked trails. The terrain isn't challenging, making it suitable for families with older children who can handle an hour or two of woodland wandering. Dog owners seem to love it here - plenty of space to let them off the lead.

Being close to Chester means it's easy to combine with a city visit, though honestly, after tramping through the woods you might not fancy the Roman walls afterwards. The forest connects well with other woodland areas, so keen walkers could easily spend half a day here.

For those staying at nearby holiday parks like Delamere Forest Camping and Caravanning Club Site or The Ridgeway Country Holiday Park, it's a cracking spot for an early morning walk before the day gets busy. Just don't expect facilities or waymarked routes - this is woodland in its fairly natural state, which is exactly why some people prefer it to more manicured forest parks.