Barford Wood

Barford Wood sits just a few miles south of Warwick, a proper working woodland that feels miles away from the tourist crush of the town centre. It's the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think - dense trees, decent footpaths, and enough space that you won't be tripping over other walkers even on a decent weekend.

The wood itself is manageable rather than vast. You're looking at a couple of hours maximum if you want to do a proper circuit, which makes it ideal if you're caravan-based at one of the parks nearby like Harbury Fields Farm or Newlands - close enough for a half-day outing without the faff of driving miles. The terrain is relatively gentle woodland walking, though it can get a bit muddy after rain, so decent boots aren't optional.

Families with young kids will get an hour's entertainment easily enough, though there's not much in the way of dramatic features or play equipment. Older children and walkers will find it genuinely rewarding. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars - the canopy here is good for spotting woodland species.

I'd say go on a weekday morning if you can. The wood works best when it's not rammed, and you'll actually notice the peace and quiet you're there for. It's free to access and there's usually decent parking nearby. Not a destination in itself - you won't travel from Birmingham for it - but paired with Warwick's castle and town centre, it rounds out a proper day's exploring without breaking the bank.