Redhouse Wood

The woodland around Redhouse Wood, just outside York, is proper woodland walking territory. Ancient trees, dappled light, and enough quietness to actually hear the birds. It's the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for, though it's well worth a deliberate visit if you're based at Wighill Park Glamping and fancy breaking up a holiday with some actual forest time.

There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of - this is about the walk itself. The tracks wind through mature woodland, and on a decent day the light filtering through the canopy makes everything look like a nature documentary. Bring decent boots though. After rain, the paths get boggy, and the mud here clings to your trainers with impressive determination.

Walkers will love it. Families with young kids might manage an hour, possibly two if the children don't get bored of jumping in puddles. It's not dramatic landscape - no views over dales or anything. What you're getting is woods, proper old woods, and space to breathe. History types won't find much to discuss, so this isn't a "I learned something" kind of stop.

If you're staying at Wighill Park, this sits reasonably close for an afternoon venture. Combine it with York itself - medieval walls and the Minster - and you've got a decent balance between culture and countryside. The wood works best as a contrast to a town day rather than a destination in its own right. Free to walk, and there's no time pressure. Go early on a weekday and you might not see another soul.