Great Padmires

Dense woodland stretches across this corner of Lincolnshire, offering a proper escape from the coastal crowds at nearby Skegness. Great Padmires is the sort of place that rewards those willing to venture inland from the seaside attractions - a working forest where you can actually hear yourself think.

Walking here feels genuinely remote, despite being just a few miles from the holiday park strips. The paths wind through mature trees, and on a misty morning you'd be forgiven for thinking you're somewhere far wilder than the East Midlands. Dog walkers will find plenty of space to let their pets roam, though keep them close during any forestry work periods.

Families staying at places like Parkdean Southview or Haven Skegness will find this makes a refreshing change from beach days. The kids might grumble initially, but give them half an hour to start building dens and collecting interesting sticks, and they'll be right as rain. It's free to explore, assuming public access remains as it traditionally has been in this area.

Allow a couple of hours if you're planning a proper woodland walk. The forest works brilliantly as a morning adventure before heading back to your holiday park for lunch - close enough to Skegness that you're not committed to a full day out, but different enough to feel like a mini expedition.