Castlegate Park

A steep walk down from the carpark takes you into a proper Northumberland gorge - the River Tweed cuts through here with real drama, and the paths wind between old woodland and craggy banks. It's the sort of place that feels wilder than you'd expect just outside Berwick-upon-Tweed.

The reserve itself is manageable on foot. You get woodland trails, a river walk if the water level isn't too high, and viewpoints where you can actually see what the landscape's doing rather than just staring at trees. The geology is interesting - sandstone cliffs, natural erosion patterns - if you're into that kind of thing. For families, it works well as a half-day outing; kids get a proper walk without needing fell-walking boots, and there's usually enough rock-hopping and water-spotting to keep them engaged. Walkers after a real trek will find it a bit tame, to be honest.

Staying at Haven Berwick Holiday Centre or one of the caravan sites within a mile or so makes this an easy morning's work before heading elsewhere. Spring's probably best - the woodland's fresher, the river's more dramatic. Summer can get busy with day-trippers. Allow a couple of hours if you're taking it slowly.

No information readily available on paid entry or opening times, so ring ahead or check locally in Berwick before you set out. Worth the detour if you're based nearby, but not a reason to drive across the region on its own.