Hetton Lyons Country Park

Hetton Lyons is a proper nature reserve just outside Durham, the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think. It's mainly woodland and open grassland - nothing dramatic, but genuinely pleasant if you're after a quieter walk away from the city centre.

You'll find footpaths threading through the trees and across the meadows. It's the sort of spot where local birdwatchers come regularly, and you might spot deer if you're lucky and move quietly enough. The woodland canopy is thick in summer, which keeps things cool, and in spring the bluebells can be rather lovely. There's also a small pond area that attracts various water birds.

This works best for families wanting a low-key outing or anyone needing a straightforward walk without too many hills or distances to worry about. You won't need more than an hour or two here unless you're a dedicated wildlife observer with binoculars and a notebook. It's free to visit, which is always a bonus.

If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - Finchale Abbey or Durham Grange are both within a few miles - this fills a gap nicely on a quieter day. It's not a destination in itself, but rather a sensible addition to a Durham-based break. The reserve works well if you're combining it with a visit into Durham itself, perhaps after exploring the cathedral or the riverside walks. Don't expect facilities or refreshments on-site, so come prepared.