Mattersey Wood

You'll need to bring proper waterproofs to Mattersey Wood. The paths here are genuine woodland trails - muddy, root-strewn, and all the better for it. It's a working forest rather than a manicured nature reserve, with tall conifers creating that deep green gloom you either love or find a bit oppressive depending on the weather.

The wood sits just outside Doncaster territory, making it a solid half-day detour if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Bawtry or Hallcroft. Walkers will get the most from it - there's genuine walking to be done here, not a quick stroll round a car park. Kids who like climbing over fallen trees and spotting the odd bird will stay entertained for a couple of hours; those after a manicured playground experience won't.

Access appears to be free and unrestricted, typical of Nottinghamshire's forest commons, though facilities are minimal - no visitor centre, no tea room, no marked waypoints. You navigate by instinct and what sense you can make of the terrain. That's either the charm or the drawback, depending on your tolerance for getting slightly lost among the trees.

It works well as a breathing space between caravan park life and busier attractions. The wood won't set your pulse racing, but on a grey morning when you want fresh air and quiet, it does the job properly. Allow two to three hours if you fancy a proper walk; less if you're just after a quick leg-stretch.