Park Wood

A proper woodland walk just outside Newark, Park Wood offers what feels like genuine countryside despite being barely a stone's throw from town. The forest floor here is thick with leaf litter, and you'll find yourself moving between mature trees without the sense you're on anyone's manicured trail - it's wild enough to feel exploratory without being genuinely remote.

You're looking at a solid hour or two wandering through here, depending on how deep you want to go. The paths aren't particularly challenging, which makes it ideal for families with younger kids who've still got energy to burn, though older walkers won't find it demanding enough to feel like proper exercise. Spring brings bluebells that genuinely stop you mid-stride, and autumn is when the canopy really earns its keep.

It's the sort of place that works well as a half-day outing when you're based at one of the nearby glamping spots around Newark - BrackenXcapes and Southwell Retreat are both within striking distance if you're after something with a bit more comfort than straight camping. Equally, if you're already visiting Milestone or Wigwam Holidays, it's worth a detour on your way through the county.

Free to access and no particular time you need to worry about - just turn up. The ground can get boggy after rain, so proper boots matter more than you'd think for what's otherwise a straightforward woodland walk.