Dogkennel Belt

A proper stretch of woodland just outside Atherstone, Dogkennel Belt is one of those forests that rewards a decent walk but won't take your entire afternoon. The trees are thick enough to feel genuinely separated from the world, and there's a decent network of paths that wind through without being confusing. On a clear day the light filters through nicely, and you'll spot the odd heron if you're lucky near the water.It's the sort of place walkers actually enjoy rather than parents desperately trying to tire out restless kids. That said, a family with children aged seven upwards would find it manageable - there's enough space to let them burn energy without feeling like you're dragging them. The woodland floor is mostly uneven, so proper shoes are worth packing. Allow a couple of hours if you're taking it slowly, less if you're just after a brisk circuit. Spring brings bluebells, which lifts it from pleasant to worth the drive. Winter's fine too - fewer insects, clearer sightlines through the bare branches. If you're staying at Nightingales Rustic Camping just down the road, this makes a natural morning excursion before heading back for lunch. It's free to access and there's a car park, though it gets busy on weekends. Nothing fancy, nothing gimmicky - just solid, honest woodland that does what it says.