Dunton Fen

The moment you step into Dunton Fen, the noise of the A1 fades and you're genuinely in woodland. It's a proper slice of Hertfordshire forest, dense enough that it feels properly wild even though Sandy's just down the road. The paths wind through mixed woodland - oak, ash, birch - and in spring the wildflower display is decent, though not showy.

This is walkers' territory, really. If you're after a gentle amble or want to build in some forest time during a longer Hertfordshire ramble, it works well. The paths are straightforward enough that older kids won't get frustrated, but there's nothing flashy to hold younger children's attention for hours. You're here for the walking, the fresh air, the chance to actually hear birds.

Allow a couple of hours if you're doing a proper loop. There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring what you need. Free to enter, obviously. Spring and early autumn are the best times - summer can feel a bit enclosed and damp, winter's muddy but atmospheric.

If you're based at Ashridge Farm Caravan and Motorhome Club just a few miles away, this is an easy add-on to your itinerary. It's not the dramatic forest walks of the Chilterns, but it's genuine woodland without the crowds. Honest, straightforward, and proper.