Linton Wood

Ancient oak and beech trees tower overhead as you follow the winding paths through this substantial Gloucestershire woodland. Linton Wood sprawls across steep hillsides just outside Ross-on-Wye, offering proper forest walking without the manicured feel of some managed woodlands. The terrain varies from gentle valley floors to fairly challenging climbs - your calves will know about it.

Dog walkers absolutely love it here, and you'll likely encounter more four-legged visitors than human ones on weekday mornings. Families with energetic kids will find plenty to explore, though pushchairs are a no-go given the rough paths and steep gradients. The wood comes alive in spring with bluebells carpeting the forest floor, while autumn brings spectacular colour changes.

Expect to spend a good two hours if you're doing the full circuit, longer if you're stopping to identify bird calls or letting children scramble over fallen logs. There's no visitor centre or facilities, so come prepared with water and snacks.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Haywood Farm or Darnells' Farm makes this an easy morning adventure. The location works brilliantly as part of a Wye Valley exploration - you're perfectly positioned for Ross-on-Wye's market town attractions and the broader Forest of Dean area.