Thorneycroft Wood

Thorneycroft Wood is a proper woodland walk just a few miles outside Northampton - the sort of place locals know about but tourists often miss. It's genuinely lovely if you're after an hour or two among the trees, with decent paths that wind through mixed woodland and open up onto some fairly decent views across the valley. Nothing dramatic, but peaceful in a way that suburban woodlands often are.

Walkers and families with younger kids get the most out of it. The terrain is manageable - no real climbs - and it's the kind of spot where you can potter about without needing to commit to a full day hike. Bring wellies if there's been rain; the ground holds moisture. There's something quite restorative about it after time spent in Northampton town centre.

I'd allow two hours maximum, assuming you're not dawdling. It works well as a morning or late afternoon break if you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Bunkers Hill Farm or Steepleton Lodge are both within ten minutes' drive, which makes it convenient for caravan or glamping holidays in the area. Free access as far as I could establish, though details are sparse online.

Truth is, it's not going to be the highlight of anyone's trip. But if you're based locally and the weather's decent, it's absolutely worth the detour. Don't expect Instagram moments or anything Instagram-worthy - just proper woodland and the chance to clear your head.