Woodmans Wood

A proper woodland walk just outside Rickmansworth, Woodmans Wood offers the kind of dense, atmospheric forest that makes you forget the Chiltern suburbs are minutes away. The trees are old and thick here, and in autumn the floor becomes a carpet of rust and gold that crunches satisfyingly underfoot.

It's the sort of place walkers gravitate towards - nothing too strenuous, just quiet woodland trails that meander without much elevation. The paths are well-trodden but never crowded, which says something about how many people overlook it. If you're after proper woodland rather than a manicured nature reserve, this delivers.

Families with younger children will manage the terrain fine, though it won't hold their attention for hours - an hour and a half covers most of what's interesting. Photographers and bird watchers get more from it, particularly in spring when the canopy opens up and light floods through. Winter reveals the bones of the forest in a way that feels quite haunting.

The nearest town is Rickmansworth, which gives you easy access if you're staying at somewhere like Lights Camera Glamping nearby. No admission charge, no facilities to speak of, so come prepared with proper footwear. The trees don't care whether you visit in the height of summer or a misty November afternoon - both have their merits. Go early in the day if you want solitude.