Long Plantation

A proper woodland walk without the crowds you'd find at Yorkshire's more famous forests. Long Plantation near Brough is the sort of place locals know about but tourists often miss - which is exactly why it's worth a visit.

You're looking at mixed woodland that's genuinely pleasant to walk through, with decent paths and enough space to feel like you've actually gone somewhere rather than just shuffled round a car park loop. The trees are well-established, so there's decent shade even on brighter days, and in autumn the colour can be quite striking. It's the kind of forest that rewards a proper ramble rather than a quick half-hour circuit.

Families with young kids will find it manageable, though it's not a destination with play equipment or visitor facilities - bring a packed lunch if you're staying long. Walkers will appreciate the relative quietness, especially mid-week. Dogs love it, obviously.

The nearest town, Brough, is close by, making this a natural add-on if you're already in East Yorkshire. Pair it with a stay at one of the nearby glamping spots - Little Wold Away and Little Otchan are both rated excellently - and you've got a proper woodland break without needing to trek to the Pennines. William's Den is another solid option if you want something a bit different.

Free to access, naturally. Allow 90 minutes to two hours depending on how far you fancy walking. It's the real thing - just a forest, quietly getting on with being a forest.