Hall Woods

A proper woodland walk rather than a destination in itself, Hall Woods sits just outside Stocksfield and delivers exactly what you'd want from a forest jaunt in County Durham. The trees are dense enough to feel properly tucked away, with paths that wind through beech and oak - the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think instead of fighting through crowds.

Walkers will get the most from this one. There's no visitor centre or café, no manicured loops with interpretive boards. Just woodland, paths, and fresh air. You can spend anything from forty minutes to two hours here depending on how lost you fancy getting and whether you stop to sit on a fallen log for a bit. The ground can be muddy even days after rain, so proper boots matter.

It's free and open whenever you fancy it, which is the whole appeal. Bring the family if you've got kids who actually enjoy walking rather than demanding attractions every five minutes - teenagers will find it dull, but primary school age children tend to like the scrambling about aspect.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - Hidden Retreat, Allensford, or Springhouse Boutique - Hall Woods works as a morning activity before heading elsewhere for something with more wow factor. It's solid, local, and honest. Not thrilling, but proper value.