Butcher's Wood

Ancient oaks tower overhead while badger tracks criss-cross the muddy paths through this proper woodland escape just outside Montgomery. Butcher's Wood feels properly wild - the sort of place where kids can build dens and adults can actually hear themselves think.

Dog walkers will love the network of informal trails that wind between the trees, though wellies are essential after rain. The canopy creates lovely dappled light even on grey days, making it a decent backup when the weather turns. Families staying at nearby spots like Mellington Hall Caravan Park or Camlad Valley Luxury Pods often use it as a morning adventure before heading into Montgomery proper.

Expect to spend an hour here at most unless you're really into woodland photography or the children are particularly taken with stick collecting. It's not signposted heavily, so keep your eyes peeled for the woodland entrance near Montgomery. The lack of facilities means it's genuinely unspoilt - no car parks, no visitor centres, just trees and birdsong.

Best combined with a trip to Montgomery's castle ruins or the town's antique shops rather than treated as a destination in itself. Those staying at Woodbatch Camping or the various glamping sites dotted around will find it a pleasant leg-stretcher, but don't expect anything too dramatic.