Mowbage Plantation

Dense woodland stretches across this quiet corner of Herefordshire, offering proper walking country without the crowds you'll find at better-known spots. Mowbage Plantation sits just outside Hereford, making it an easy escape from the city centre into something altogether more peaceful.

Dog walkers will love this place - there's space to let them run free through the trees without worrying about traffic or livestock. The paths wind through mixed woodland, mainly conifers but with patches of deciduous trees that put on a lovely show in autumn. It's not signposted to within an inch of its life like some places, which gives it a more natural feel.

Families staying at nearby sites like Poston Mill or Preston Campsite will find it handy for burning off energy, though very small children might struggle with some of the rougher ground. There aren't facilities here - no car park that I could see, no loos, no visitor centre. Just trees and paths.

Honestly, it's not going to win prizes for spectacular views or unique features. But sometimes that's exactly what you want - a bit of woodland to stretch your legs without any fuss. Give yourself an hour or two to explore properly, and perhaps combine it with a trip into Hereford for supplies.