Mill Wood

Mill Wood sits just outside Stanley and is one of those proper woodland patches that rewards a decent walk without needing special plans or entry fees. The forest itself is straightforward - mature trees, clear paths, the usual woodland floor of moss and leaf litter - but it's got that quiet, absorbing quality that makes you forget you're still in Tyne and Wear. The main appeal is simply walking through it. There's something restorative about that.

It works best for walkers and anyone after an hour or so of fresh air away from the town noise. Kids will find it fine if they're the type who don't need a visitor centre and a gift shop - there's nothing fancy here, just trees and paths. Allow an hour minimum, more if you're ambling and looking at the understory.

Access appears to be free, though opening hours aren't advertised anywhere useful - which suggests it's just open whenever you fancy it. Best visited outside peak mud season, so spring through early autumn really. Winter's grey and damp here.

If you're staying at one of the local glamping spots - Beamish Holiday Park or West Hall Glamping aren't far - Mill Wood makes a sensible morning stroll before heading to Beamish Museum or exploring the wider area. It's the kind of place you slot into a itinerary rather than build one around, but that doesn't make it worthless. Sometimes a proper walk in the woods is exactly what you need.