Fanny's Glen

Drive inland from Stockton-on-Tees and you'll find yourself in proper woodland territory at Fanny's Glen. It's a forest walk, nothing elaborate, but the kind of place that justifies pulling off the main road when the weather's decent.

The glen cuts through dense tree cover - mixed woodland with enough shade to keep things cool even on warmer days. You're walking through what feels like the North East's answer to the Weald, with natural pathways that meander rather than march. The whole affair is free to access, which is refreshing, and you can knock it out in an hour or so if you're moving at a decent pace, longer if you want to potter.

This works best for families wanting a proper forest stomp without needing to drive three hours. Walkers will appreciate the natural routing; it's not manicured, which is the whole point. History types might find the landscape itself interesting - this is working woodland, not theme park nature. Kids tend to go quiet in dense trees, which some parents see as a win.

If you're based at Donnewell Farm Caravan Club, just 3.4 miles away, Fanny's Glen makes a solid half-day excursion before heading back for tea. Timing-wise, go in spring or autumn when you won't overheat and the light filters nicely through the canopy. Summer gets thick with growth, and wet winters turn the paths into mud baths.

Honestly? It's not a destination in itself. But as part of a longer weekend exploring County Durham's quieter corners, it earns its place.