Old Game Bag Plantation

Dense woodland carpets this corner of North Norfolk, creating a proper labyrinth of tracks that'll keep walkers busy for hours. The plantation sits just outside Sheringham, offering a welcome change from the coastal crowds that descend on this stretch during summer months.

Families with energetic kids will find plenty to explore here - the network of paths means you can tailor walks to suit shorter legs or push on for longer rambles if the weather's decent. Dog walkers absolutely love the place, and you'll spot plenty of locals treating it as their regular exercise ground.

What strikes you most is how quickly the forest swallows the sound of nearby traffic. Within minutes of leaving the car, you're in proper woodland territory with nothing but birdsong and the crunch of leaves underfoot. The paths aren't always clearly marked though, so bringing a decent map wouldn't go amiss if you're planning anything ambitious.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Kelling Heath or Beeston Regis, this makes a cracking morning or afternoon out when the beach loses its appeal. The plantation works particularly well on those grey Norfolk days when the coast feels a bit bleak - at least here you've got some shelter from the elements and the chance to spot red squirrels if you're lucky.