Fentons wood

Deep shade and dappled sunlight filter through ancient oaks and beech trees in this proper bit of Suffolk woodland. Fentons Wood stretches for acres just east of Woodbridge, offering the kind of proper forest walking that gets harder to find these days. The paths wind through established trees with enough variety to keep things interesting - you'll spot everything from towering ash to silver birch catching the light.

Families with energetic kids will find this spot works well for burning off energy, though don't expect marked trails or interpretation boards. It's refreshingly uncommercialized woodland where you make your own entertainment. Dog walkers particularly love it here - plenty of space for proper off-lead exercise without worrying about traffic.

The forest connects nicely with longer walks if you're feeling ambitious, but an hour or two wandering the main tracks gives you a good taste. Spring brings proper carpets of bluebells, while autumn sees the canopy turn spectacular shades of gold and russet. It's free to explore, naturally, and you can park along the woodland edges.

Staying at one of the nearby sites like Moon & Sixpence or Secret Meadows Glamping? This makes a lovely morning or afternoon jaunt when you want proper countryside without driving miles. Just the thing for clearing your head between beach days along the Suffolk coast.