West Wood

Dense ancient woodland stretches for miles just outside Newark, offering proper countryside walking without the usual tourist crowds. West Wood feels genuinely wild - the sort of place where you can lose the path for twenty minutes and not mind a bit. Tall oaks and ash trees create a proper canopy overhead, while brambles and ferns carpet the forest floor.

Families with older children will love the freedom to explore, though pushchair users should look elsewhere as the paths can be muddy and uneven. Dog walkers have struck gold here - miles of trails where your four-legged friend can roam relatively freely. The lack of formal facilities means bringing your own refreshments, but that's part of the appeal.

Walking boots are essential, especially after rain when the clay soil becomes properly slippery. Allow at least two hours if you want to explore beyond the main tracks. The wood connects to several footpaths, so keen walkers can easily stretch this into a half-day adventure.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Lakeside Touring Caravan Park or Four Seasons Country Park makes this an easy morning excursion. It's the perfect antidote to busier family attractions - somewhere to properly stretch your legs and remember what proper English countryside feels like.