Elvet Green

You'll find Elvet Green tucked into Durham itself, a proper slice of riverside calm that most visitors to the cathedral city completely miss. It's a nature reserve that sits right along the Wear, giving you walking paths through woodland and open grassland where you can actually hear yourself think. The green itself is flat and accessible, which makes it decent for families who don't fancy a strenuous hike, though there's enough woodland to explore if you want something slightly more adventurous.

What you get here depends on the season. Spring brings wildflowers and nesting birds; autumn turns the riverside walk into something special with the light filtering through the trees. Bring binoculars if you're into birdwatching - the reserve attracts proper variety. A casual wander takes about an hour, though you could easily spend longer if you sit by the water for a bit.

Historians won't find much drama here, but walkers absolutely will. It works brilliantly as part of a Durham circuit - pop here after seeing the cathedral, then head out to one of the camping parks nearby. Andy's Woodland Wild Camping is closest at just over two miles, and West Hall Glamping at under five miles if you want something more upmarket. The reserve itself is free, which is refreshing. Best visited outside school holidays when it's less rammed. It's not going to blow your mind, but it's genuine green space in the middle of a city, and that's worth your time.