Oak Covert

The forest feels older than it probably is. Walking into Oak Covert near Woodbridge, you're immediately under a proper canopy - tall oaks creating that dappled light that makes you forget the Norfolk flatlands exist outside these boundaries. It's woodland that actually feels like woodland, not a manicured nature reserve with interpretation boards every fifty metres.

You can wander the paths for a couple of hours without much trouble. The ground's uneven in places, which keeps things interesting if you're sick of Suffolk's relentless flatness. In autumn it's genuinely lovely - the light changes by the hour and you'll spot mushrooms if you know where to look. Spring brings bluebells in patches, though don't expect the Instagram-worthy carpets you see elsewhere.

Walkers will get the most from this. Families with young children might find it a bit samey after an hour - there's no playground or visitor facilities that I could spot, which means you need proper walking shoes and a sense of adventure. History types will appreciate the gnarled old oaks, some of which have to be a few centuries old. It's the kind of place that rewards slowing down rather than ticking off.

If you're based at Beach View Holiday Park down the road - that's the one worth the higher rating - Oak Covert makes a solid morning walk without driving far. It's free to access and there's no formal opening hours fuss. Bring a map or decent phone signal, stick to the main paths, and you won't regret the detour.