Wyke Plantation

Dense conifer stands climb the hillsides above Ambleside in this working plantation that doubles as a proper woodland walk. The paths wind through different aged sections of forestry - some newly planted clearings where you can see across to the fells, others so thick with spruce and pine that it feels quite dark even on sunny days.

Families with energetic kids will find plenty to explore here, though the trails aren't waymarked so bring a sense of direction. The going can be muddy after rain, and some of the steeper sections are better suited to older children who won't tire easily. Dog walkers use it regularly - it's that sort of place where locals know the routes but visitors might struggle without a map.

What makes Wyke Plantation worth the trek from your holiday park is the contrast it offers to the more popular Lake District walks. No crowds, no entry fees, just proper forestry tracks where you might spot red squirrels if you're quiet enough. The plantation sits handily between several campsites around Great Langdale, making it an easy morning's walk before the tourist hordes descend on the main attractions. Allow a couple of hours if you want to explore properly, though you could easily spend longer if the weather's decent and you fancy a picnic in one of the clearings.