Delamere Forest

The forest sprawls across 1,200 acres of Cheshire countryside and feels genuinely wild for somewhere so close to Northwich. Red squirrels dart between the pines, and on a quiet morning you might spot roe deer picking their way through the undergrowth. The walking is the main draw here - trails loop through coniferous woodland and open heath, ranging from gentle circular routes to proper hikes that'll get your boots muddy.

It's the sort of place that rewards turning up midweek rather than battling weekend crowds. The forest has a raw, working feel to it - this is forestry land as much as nature reserve, with timber operations running alongside the trails. Some people find that honest. Others might prefer the manicured park experience.

Walkers absolutely get the most from Delamere. The network of marked paths means you can spend anything from an hour on a short circuit to half a day working the longer routes. It's not dramatically dramatic - no mountains, no lookout points that make you gasp - but it's proper woodland walking with enough variation to keep you interested. Families with young kids might find an hour or so enough before the "are we there yet" kicks in, though adventurous ones who'll explore will manage longer.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks dotted nearby - Delamere Forest Camping is practically on the doorstep, or there's Delamere Lake Sailing about a mile away - you've got an easy spot to spend a morning or afternoon. Free access, no faffing about with entrance fees. Go early, walk quietly, and you might actually see something wildlife-wise.