Coed Elgar

The forest sprawls across hillside above Aberystwyth, a proper chunk of Welsh woodland that feels miles from anywhere despite being minutes from town. Coed Elgar is less manicured than your typical country park - it's the real thing, with dense tree cover, natural paths threading through bracken and ferns, and the kind of peace that makes you forget the coast is just over the ridge.

Walkers will get the most from it. There are decent trails winding through the trees, nothing too technical but enough elevation to feel like proper exercise. You'll spot the odd bridge, some clearings with views toward the hills, and depending on season, bluebells that justify the detour alone. It's the sort of place where an hour disappears and suddenly you've done two.

The forest works brilliantly as a morning walk if you're staying at Cambrian Coast Holiday Park or Searivers Caravan Park - both within easy reach. Grab the kids if they're the type to tolerate muddy boots; anyone under seven might get restless. Dog walkers absolutely should come here. There's space, there's trees, there's room to breathe.

Come when it's been dry enough that the paths aren't a bog. Summer's obvious but autumn is better - fewer people, better light filtering through the leaves, and the ground firms up nicely. Admission appears to be free, though facilities are minimal. Bring a packed lunch if you're planning a proper session.