Coed Plas Newydd

The woodland trails here are proper peaceful - a decent escape from the caravanning crowds down the road at The Beach near Rhyl. Coed Plas Newydd is a working forest rather than a manicured walk, which means you get actual trees instead of ornamental shrubs and photo-op benches.

The paths wind through mixed woodland with enough variation to keep things interesting for a couple of hours. It's the kind of place where you'll spot evidence of proper forestry work - felled logs, cleared sections - which either adds authenticity or looks a bit shabby depending on your mood. Children under ten will probably enjoy it for around an hour before asking if there's a cafe. There isn't.

Walking types will appreciate the elevation change without it being exhausting, and the canopy cover means you won't roast on a summer afternoon. The real appeal is proximity to base - if you're staying at The Beach Caravan Park or anywhere else around Rhyl, this gives you a woodland morning without driving inland for hours.

Free to access and no time restrictions as far as anyone knows. Best visited mid-week in autumn when you won't bump into school groups. Spring's lovely too if you catch the right week. Winter's muddy, which is fine if that's your thing. Not a destination in itself, but absolutely worth the fifteen-minute drive if you're in the area and need some actual trees around you.