Coed Ysgubor-fawr

Dark woodland paths wind through this substantial forest block just outside Whitland, where centuries-old oaks and ash trees create a proper canopy overhead. The Welsh name translates roughly to 'big barn wood', hinting at its agricultural past before the trees took hold.

Walkers will find decent tracks threading through the interior, though don't expect waymarked trails or fancy interpretation boards. This is working woodland - you might encounter forestry vehicles on weekdays. The going can get muddy after rain, so proper boots are essential.

Families with young children might find it a bit samey after half an hour, but older kids who enjoy scrambling over fallen logs and spotting wildlife will have a field day. I counted at least six different bird species during my morning visit, including a green woodpecker that hammered away obliviously overhead.

Access appears to be free, though parking options near the forest edge are limited to roadside spaces. Allow a good two hours if you want to explore properly. The forest works well as a morning activity if you're staying at one of the nearby camping spots like Cowpots Camping or Westwales Camping Pods - it's close enough for a pre-breakfast walk but substantial enough to feel like a proper outing.