Gamlingay Wood

A proper woodland walk near Sandy that delivers far more character than you'd expect from somewhere tucked away in Cambridgeshire. Gamlingay Wood is a 200-acre stretch of mixed woodland - old coppice, beech, oak - with decent trails running through it and a genuine sense of being away from things, which counts for plenty in this part of the country.

You're looking at a couple of hours here, maybe three if you're not rushing. The paths are well-maintained and mostly straightforward, though it can get boggy in winter so come prepared. Locals use it properly - dog walkers, runners, families looking for something to do on a Saturday morning. It's free to access and there's parking at the entrance, which keeps things simple.

For families with kids, it works well enough. There's enough space to let them run about without losing them entirely, and the woodland wildlife keeps their attention. Serious hikers might find it a touch tame compared to the Peak District, but as a mid-length countryside stroll from your base, it does the job.

If you're staying at Cambridgeshire Lakes just down the road, this is an easy add-on - far better than another lap of the caravan site. The nearby St Neots Camping and Caravanning Club Site is also within striking distance. Come in spring when the woodland floor has some interest, or autumn when the light through the trees is genuinely lovely. Summer gets busy with families and dog walkers, which takes the edge off the peace.