Vaynol Wood

Ancient oak and beech trees tower overhead as you follow the winding paths through this slice of old-growth woodland on Anglesey's edge. Vaynol Wood feels properly wild - the kind of place where moss carpets everything and you half expect to spot red squirrels darting between the branches.

Walkers will love the network of tracks that weave through different sections of forest, each with its own character. The terrain's gentle enough for most ages, though some paths can get muddy after rain - decent boots recommended. Dog owners particularly rate this spot since it's well away from roads and livestock.

Families staying at nearby parks like Plas Coch or Ael y Garnedd will find it makes a cracking change of pace from beach days. The kids can let off steam scrambling over fallen logs while you actually get some peace among the trees. Just a few miles from Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, it's an easy detour that doesn't require planning - simply turn up and wander.

Birders bring binoculars hoping for woodland species, and it delivers on that front too. Allow a couple of hours if you want to explore properly, though you could easily stretch it longer with a picnic. The lack of facilities means it stays genuinely quiet - no cafes or visitor centres, just proper woodland as it should be.