Street Wood

Brambles catch at your jacket as you push deeper into this slice of ancient woodland just outside Preston. Street Wood feels properly wild - not one of those manicured forests with wooden signs every five metres. The paths here meander without much logic, which is half the charm if you're after a bit of proper exploration.

Families with young kids might find it a bit rough going. This isn't pushchair territory by any stretch. But for anyone who fancies a good stomp through genuine Lancashire woodland, it's cracking. The canopy's thick enough to keep you dry in light rain, and there's that satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot that makes autumn walks worthwhile.

You won't find visitor centres or car parks here - it's the sort of place locals know about but tourists rarely stumble across. Budget an hour or two if you want to do it justice, though you could easily spend longer if you're the type who stops to identify every bird call. The wood sits conveniently close to several holiday parks including Orchard Glamping and Gibsons Barn Caravan Park, making it a decent option for campers who want to stretch their legs without driving miles. Just don't expect facilities - bring your own water and wear proper boots.