Square Plantation

Square Plantation sits inland from Scarborough, a proper working forest rather than some manicured visitor spot. It's the sort of place where you actually feel like you've wandered into actual woodland instead of a theme park version of one. The plantation is dominated by conifers - mostly larch and Scots pine - which give it a different character to the broadleaf forests you'll find elsewhere in Yorkshire. On a grey day it can feel a bit austere, all dark trunks and needle-carpet underfoot, but come in late afternoon light and it's rather lovely.

Walkers will get the most from Square Plantation. There are decent tracks through the trees, though they can turn muddy after rain, and you won't be battling crowds like you might at more famous destinations. A solid couple of hours here gives you a proper dose of forest without the performance. It's the sort of place to bring binoculars if you're into birds - quieter areas sometimes reward patience.

Perfect if you're basing yourself at Centenary Way Camping and Caravan Park, just six miles away. It's an easy drive from there for an afternoon's walking, or combine it with a seaside trip into Scarborough town itself. The plantation works best in spring when the larch is fresh, or autumn when the colours actually shift a bit. Summer can feel a touch oppressive under the canopy.

Free access, though standard countryside rules apply. Bring proper boots - drainage isn't its strongest point.