Greenhill

Ancient oak and beech trees stretch skyward in this patch of proper Worcestershire woodland, just outside Tewkesbury. Greenhill's network of informal paths winds through mixed deciduous forest where bluebells carpet the ground in spring and autumn brings spectacular colour.

Dog walkers will love the freedom here - plenty of space for energetic breeds to charge about off-lead. The terrain varies from gentle slopes to steeper climbs that'll get your heart pumping, making it ideal for anyone wanting a decent woodland ramble without travelling far from town. Children enjoy scrambling over fallen logs and hunting for interesting fungi, though toddlers might struggle with the uneven ground.

What strikes you most is how quickly you feel miles from anywhere, despite being so close to the A38. The forest has that lovely thick canopy that muffles traffic noise completely once you're a few hundred metres in. Bird spotters often catch sight of woodpeckers and nuthatches among the older trees.

Expect to spend an hour or two exploring the main routes, though serious walkers could easily stretch it to half a day by linking up with nearby footpaths. The forest works brilliantly as a morning stretch-your-legs stop if you're staying at Millavon Holiday Park or Tewkesbury Abbey Caravan site - both within easy reach for a quick forest fix before heading on to bigger attractions.