Park Wood

Ancient oak and ash trees tower overhead as you follow the winding paths through this peaceful woodland on the edge of Clitheroe. Park Wood feels properly wild despite being just minutes from town - deer tracks criss-cross the muddy trails and you'll spot plenty of bird life if you take your time.

Families with energetic kids will love the freedom to roam here, though pushchair users should stick to the main paths as things get rutted deeper into the woods. The forest floor carpets with bluebells in late spring, making it well worth timing a visit for May if you're staying locally.

No facilities or formal car park, so you'll need to find roadside parking near the entrance. Allow an hour or two for a proper explore, longer if the children want to build dens or collect conkers. Dog walkers have clearly claimed this as their territory - expect plenty of four-legged company.

From nearby holiday parks like Claylands Caravan Park or Little Oakhurst Boutique Glamping, it's an easy walk or short drive for a morning adventure. The wood connects nicely with longer walks towards the Ribble Valley if you're feeling ambitious, though most families will find enough here to tire out the troops before lunch.