Salmond's Plantation

Walking through Salmond's Plantation feels like stepping into the Lake District proper, even though you're barely a mile from Penrith. This is a proper forest - mature trees, decent paths, the works - rather than a manicured attraction. It's the sort of place you wander into on a whim and suddenly realise you've been there for two hours.

The plantation works best for walkers after a rainy spell, when the forest floor has that rich earthy smell and the light filters through the canopy in broken patches. If you're after easy paved loops and tea rooms, look elsewhere. This is about stretching your legs and breathing properly. Kids who enjoy scrambling around trees and finding their own trails will be entertained; younger children might find it monotonous after thirty minutes.

It's free to access, which is a genuine plus. There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring your own water and go in daylight. Allow an hour minimum, longer if you're a photographer or just fancy a proper wander.

The location is spot-on for a Penrith-based holiday. You're close enough to Waterfoot Caravan Park or Park Foot Holiday Park to nip in for a morning walk before heading to Ullswater for the afternoon. It slots into an itinerary alongside bigger Lake District draws without the crowds. Worth a detour if you're staying in the area, but not a reason to make Penrith your destination on its own.