Coed Hen-ddol

The forest floor here is thick with moss and decomposing leaves - your boots will sink slightly as you walk in. Coed Hen-ddol, near Machynlleth in Powys, is a proper working woodland where you're as likely to encounter forestry contractors as fellow walkers. It's not a manicured country estate forest with laid-out trails and interpretive boards. This is the real thing.

The paths wind through native broadleaf and conifer mix, with streams cutting through steep-sided valleys. Views open up occasionally toward the Dyfi valley if you pick the right route. The woodland canopy is thick enough that it feels remote, even though you're only a few miles from the market town. Winter's actually quite good here when the leaf cover thins - you get better sight lines and the mud is often firmer.

Walkers with decent boots will find this rewarding. It's proper hill walking rather than a gentle stroll, and the paths aren't always obvious, so an OS map or GPS is essential. Kids who enjoy genuine forest exploration rather than playground facilities will have a field day here - there's rope swings, fallen trees to clamber over, and streams to paddle in if you're not worried about soggy socks.

There's no visitor centre or facilities that I could find, so come prepared. The woodland feels genuinely untouched, which is exactly why it's worth the drive from Gwerniago Campsite three miles down the road. Most visitors to the area skip it entirely, which means you'll likely have the trails to yourself.