Griffe Wood

The woodland paths through Griffe Wood offer proper relief from the Peak District's relentless moorland. Located near Matlock, it's a working forest rather than a manicured country estate, which means you get genuine shade and the smell of pine without the gift shop.

What you're actually doing is walking through mixed woodland on reasonably well-maintained trails. The terrain's gentle enough for families with younger kids, though it's not flat - expect a bit of elevation if you venture deeper in. The trees are tall and close enough that it feels properly removed, even though you're never far from the road. On a warm day, that canopy makes all the difference.

This works best as a morning circuit for people staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - Carsington Water is only four miles away, and it breaks up what can otherwise be a relentless schedule of high moorland walks. You're looking at an hour to ninety minutes for a decent loop, depending on pace and how lost you fancy getting. It's the kind of place where kids can splash about if there's been rain and you don't have to worry about spoiling a stately home visit.

Walkers after something more demanding should head elsewhere - there's no real challenge here. But for a family wanting to stretch legs in genuine woodland without drama or crowds, Griffe Wood delivers. Go on a weekday if you can. It's free access, which is always welcome, and the ground dries out quickly after rain if you pick your timing right.