Little Haggs Wood

The woodland walk at Little Haggs Wood near Holmrook is one of those places that rewards you for leaving the car behind and actually putting in some legwork. It's proper forest - think ancient oaks, tangled undergrowth, and the kind of quiet you don't get near main roads. The trails wind through the trees with enough variation to keep you interested for a couple of hours, though it's not so vast that you'll feel lost.

What you get out of it depends entirely on your pace. Take it slow and you'll spot all manner of woodland life. Rush through and you've ticked a box. There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so come prepared - decent boots essential, especially after rain when it gets boggy. The paths aren't dramatically marked, which adds a bit of adventure but also means it pays to know roughly where you're going.

Families with older kids will do fine here. Younger ones might find it a slog without a purpose - no playgrounds or cafes to break it up. Walkers and nature types absolutely will appreciate it though. It's the kind of wood that makes you feel like you've genuinely got away, not just stepped into a managed park.

If you're staying at Fisherground Campsite nearby, this fills an afternoon nicely. Free to access and demands nothing from you except a bit of effort. Well worth the detour if you're in the area.