Pine Woods, Low Bollihope.

Low Bollihope sits in the heart of Weardale's countryside, and Pine Woods is the sort of place that rewards a proper walk rather than a quick drive-by. You're looking at a genuine woodland reserve where Scots pines dominate the landscape, with the Wear River running alongside - the water here is genuinely lovely, especially on an overcast day when the light filters through the trees.

The main draw is straightforward: walking. There are decent paths through the pines, and the whole thing feels properly remote even though you're only a few miles from Weardale's villages. It's not dramatic in the way that a fell-top can be. But if you want somewhere the kids can actually run about without worrying about cliffs or getting hopelessly lost, this works well. A solid two hours is enough to see what there is, though you could stretch it to three if you're the type who likes sitting by water.

Historically, this was working moorland before the pines went in - you won't find ruins or anything - but the woodland itself is proper habitat now, worth visiting just to see how these places recover. Birdwatchers do well here.

Free access, as far as I can establish, and no facilities that I saw. It's close enough to the holiday parks scattered around Weardale - Heather View is barely two miles away - to work as a morning excursion before heading into Stanhope or exploring the wider dale. Don't expect shops or cafes. Bring your own coffee and go when it's dry.