The Ashes

Walking into The Ashes feels like stepping back in time. This ancient woodland sits just outside Swadlincote and genuinely rewards a proper explore - the sort of place where you'll find yourself following narrow paths that loop between towering trees without seeing another soul for hours.

The forest itself is dense and moody, with plenty of character in its gnarled oaks and dense undergrowth. It's far less manicured than some woodland reserves, which is exactly why it works. Bring decent boots because the ground gets boggy, particularly after rain, but that's half the appeal if you're after something with a bit of bite to it. Allow two to three hours to do it justice, longer if you're the sort who stops to identify every bird call.

Historically minded walkers will get more from it than families with young children - there's not much in the way of facilities or obvious attractions, just woodland. If that sounds like your kind of thing, brilliant. If you need a playground or a café halfway round, you won't find either here.

Timing matters. Late autumn and winter can be atmospheric but muddy. Spring and early summer work better for sightings if you're into wildlife. The Ashes sits nicely within striking distance of Conkers Camping and Caravanning Club Site just down the road, making it a solid add-on to a park holiday in the area. Worth the drive from Swadlincote, though not worth banking your entire trip on.