Ashwood Covert

A proper woodland walk through Cheshire's quieter side, Ashwood Covert sits a couple of miles south of Whitchurch and doesn't demand much - just decent boots and maybe an hour of your time. The trees here are thick enough to feel remote, even though you're never far from civilization. Paths wind through the covert with enough variety to keep things interesting without the crowds you'd find at bigger country estates.

This is the sort of place that rewards walkers more than casual strollers. Kids under eight might find an hour enough, but if you've got older ones who enjoy proper woodland exploration, you could stretch it to ninety minutes. There's nothing flashy about it - no visitor center, no tearoom, no craft shop - just forest, which is exactly why some people will love it and others will find it a bit thin.

If you're camping at Marbury Camp & Lodge or Hawk Lake, both within striking distance, Ashwood Covert makes a solid morning activity before lunch. The woodland isn't challenging enough to tire you out completely, but it's enough to justify the walk. Go when it's rained recently - the forest floor smells properly alive, and the light filters through the canopy better.

Admission appears free, which is the only thing keeping this from feeling like a missed opportunity. Bring your own sense of adventure, because the covert won't be holding your hand.