Crossways Wood

A proper woodland walk rather than a manicured nature reserve, Crossways Wood sits just outside Northallerton and delivers what you'd hope for from a North Yorkshire forest - decent paths, room to breathe, and the kind of quiet you don't find in busier spots. The trees are mixed woodland, nothing rare or showy, but the walking is straightforward enough that it suits families with younger kids without feeling patronising for adults who know their way around a forest.

You can spend an hour here or three depending on how you move. There's no visitor centre or facilities that I could find, so bring what you need. The paths are well-trodden and mostly dry underfoot unless it's been properly wet, which makes it forgiving for casual walkers. It's the sort of place you'd naturally include in a longer day out rather than plan a trip around alone.

If you're based at Pembroke Caravan Park or Eastfield Glamping Farm - both rated highly and within five miles - Crossways Wood makes a solid addition to the rotation without needing to drive far. Same goes for Camp Kátur Glamping, just a touch further out. It won't blow your mind, but it's exactly what the area needs: accessible woodland that doesn't demand much and rewards a decent walk. Free to access as far as I can tell, and no closing hours to worry about. Worth the detour if you're already in the Northallerton area, less compelling if you're going out of your way specifically for trees.