Allt Dderw

You'll find yourself in proper woodland the moment you step into Allt Dderw, just a short drive south of Aberystwyth. It's the kind of forest where the trees genuinely tower above you - ancient oaks and conifers that make you feel rather small. The paths wind through dense undergrowth, dappled light filtering through the canopy, and if you're lucky you'll spot the wildlife that makes these Welsh woodlands special.

This is walker territory, frankly. There's nothing flashy about it - no visitor centre, no marked trails with interpretive signs, just forest and fresh air. You get what you see, which is either exactly what you want or not at all depending on your mood. A couple of hours is plenty unless you're the type to sit on a log and listen to birdsong for an afternoon. Families with younger kids might find it a bit samey after the first half-hour; older children and serious nature enthusiasts will have a proper time here.

From any of the holiday parks clustered around Clarach Bay and Aber Bay, you're within spitting distance - Clarach Bay Holiday Village is barely three miles away. Pair this with Aberystwyth's seafront walks and you've got a decent balance of woodland and coastal wandering sorted. Allt Dderw won't gobsmack you with views or facilities, but it delivers exactly what a Welsh forest should: peace, trees, and the sound of wind through branches. Free access, no faffing about with entry fees.