Gorsey Leys

The forest floor at Gorsey Leys squelches underfoot after rain, a sign you're in proper woodland rather than a manicured park. This Derbyshire forest sits just outside Derby and delivers what it promises: decent walking trails through mixed woodland, the kind of place where you actually feel like you've stepped away from town.

It's not vast - you're looking at an hour or two maximum depending on how slowly you amble - but it works well if you're staying at one of the nearby glamping spots like Broadleaves or Field of Dreams. The paths are manageable for families with kids who can walk a reasonable distance, though it won't thrill toddlers in pushchairs. For proper walkers it's more of a morning outing than a full day's hike.

Don't expect dramatic views or rare birds. What you get is the simple pleasure of being among trees, with enough variation in the terrain to keep things interesting. Spring brings bluebells if you time it right. The site seems to have free access - typical for Derbyshire woodland - and there's no formal visitor centre to faff about with.

If you're based at Hill Farm Camping just down the road, Gorsey Leys makes a cracking way to burn off some energy without loading everyone into the car. It's the kind of place locals know about rather than somewhere that pulls crowds. Worth the walk from your accommodation, but probably not worth the petrol if you're staying further afield in Derby itself.