Eastwoods Park

The walk through Eastwoods Park near Stocksfield is genuinely peaceful - the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think. It's a proper nature reserve, not some manicured country estate, so expect woodland paths that get a bit muddy after rain and stretches where the trees press close on either side.

You're moving through mixed woodland, mostly ancient oak and beech, with a small stream running through the lower sections. The paths are well-trodden enough that you won't get lost, but they're not so managed that it feels sterile. Families with school-age kids will get decent mileage from it - there's enough variety in the terrain to keep them interested for a couple of hours without it being genuinely taxing.

Birders will have a field day here. The reserve attracts nuthatch, great spotted woodpecker, and during spring you'll hear nightingale if you're lucky enough to visit at the right time. Even if you're not a twitcher, the general wildlife - badgers, deer, the usual woodland residents - make an appearance if you're quiet.

Allow a solid two to three hours if you want to do a proper loop without rushing. There's no entry fee that I'm aware of, and no facilities to speak of, so come prepared with water and snacks. It pairs nicely with Valley View Camping & Glamping just a few miles away - you can wake up, do your walk, and be back for breakfast without faffing about. Best visited spring through early autumn when the paths are driest.