Dryslack Wood

You'll find yourself in proper woodland once you venture into Dryslack Wood, a few miles south of Carlisle. It's the sort of place where the trees actually feel like they're part of something genuine - not some manicured nature reserve, but real forest that's been left to get on with it. The walking's straightforward enough, with paths that take you through decent stands of mixed woodland. It's good for blowing off steam if you've been cooped up, though don't expect dramatic views or any sort of heritage attraction.

Families with younger kids will find an hour or so here perfectly adequate - enough space to let them run about without losing them completely. Keen walkers might find it a bit limiting on its own, but it works well as a half-morning slot if you're basing yourself at Low Moor Head Caravan Park nearby and want to break up the drive with some fresh air. The ground can be boggy in places after rain, so decent footwear matters.

What you're really getting here is peace and quiet, the sort of place where you can actually hear birds. There's no café, no car park facilities to speak of, no interpretation boards - just woodland. That's either exactly what you want or not what you want at all. For a caravan holiday in the Carlisle area, it's worth thirty minutes of investigation if you pass by, but wouldn't plan a special trip.