Redgeland Wood

Walking into Redgeland Wood feels like stepping backwards in time. The tall conifers tower above you, creating this dense canopy that blocks out most of the sky, and the ground is soft with years of needles. It's proper woodland - the sort where you half expect to bump into a deer around the next bend.

The trails wind through without much fanfare, which is exactly what makes them appealing. There's no visitor centre, no themed attractions, just trees and paths and the occasional sound of birdsong. You're looking at around two hours for a decent walk, though you could easily stretch it to three if you're not in a hurry. It's ideal for anyone who wants to escape the coastal bustle of Saint Leonards-on-Sea without driving far - the wood sits just a few miles inland.

Families with older kids will get more out of it than those with toddlers. The woodland floor is uneven, and there aren't play areas or facilities to speak of. That said, if your children enjoy spotting wildlife or scrambling over roots, they'll be entertained. Bring a decent map or download the routes beforehand - signage is minimal.

If you're camping at Beech Estate, this wood makes a cracking morning escape before heading back for lunch. It won't take all day, but it's exactly the sort of place that reminds you why a forest holiday beats a beach one sometimes.