Hanchard Plantation

You'll find yourself walking into proper woodland just east of Cambridge - Hanchard Plantation is one of those local patches that locals seem to know about but don't shout from the rooftops. It's a working forest, managed forest really, so the paths are well-maintained and the whole thing feels properly cared for rather than wild.

The trees are mixed - some conifer plantations running alongside broadleaf woodland - and there's genuine peace here. No grand vistas or dramatic features, just the honest experience of being among the trees, hearing the birds, maybe spotting a deer if you're lucky enough. It's the sort of place where you can lose an hour without trying, wandering the connecting paths that loop through without any real pressure to reach a viewpoint or tick a box.

Walkers will find it worthwhile, especially anyone staying at Cuckoo Fen Campsite just six miles away. It's an excellent morning walk before breakfast or a late afternoon wander when you want to shake off the stiffness. Kids who actually like being outdoors rather than being dragged around a tourist trap will get on with it fine. Those expecting manicured parks or Instagram moments will find it a bit unremarkable.

There's no entry fee and no formal opening hours to worry about - you just show up and walk. Allow a solid hour to properly explore without rushing, longer if you fancy sitting on a fallen log and just being quiet. Perfect for a few hours when you're based in the Cambridge area during a park holiday.