West Wood

Walking through this patch of woodland just outside Consett feels properly peaceful after the busy A roads that criss-cross County Durham. West Wood isn't vast - you can cover most of it in an hour or two - but it's got enough winding paths to keep restless kids engaged without wearing out the grandparents.

Dog walkers absolutely love this place, and you'll spot plenty of locals making their daily circuits. The paths are reasonably well-maintained, though proper walking boots are wise after rain when things get a bit muddy. Families with pushchairs might struggle on some of the narrower tracks, but the main routes are accessible enough.

What strikes you most is how quickly you feel removed from the industrial heritage that surrounds much of this area. The canopy provides decent shelter, making it a reliable option even when the weather's being typically North Eastern. Teenagers might find it a bit tame, but younger children seem to enjoy the hide-and-seek potential among the trees.

Being so close to Allensford Holiday Park makes it an easy morning walk if you're staying nearby. Village Green Holiday Park guests would need a short drive, but it's well worth combining with a trip into Consett proper. Allow a couple of hours if you want to explore thoroughly, though you could easily stretch it to half a day with a packed lunch.