Holmes Park

You'll find Holmes Park sitting quietly on the outskirts of Hebden Bridge, a proper nature reserve that doesn't shout about itself. It's the kind of place where locals go to clear their heads rather than queue for photos. The reserve spans moorland and woodland, with paths that wind through heather and bracken depending on the season. Walkers get the most from it - the terrain's gentle enough for a casual afternoon but with enough variety to keep you interested for a couple of hours.

The views across the valley are decent, particularly in autumn when the moor turns bronze and purple. You're looking at proper Pennine landscape here, not some manicured garden. Birdwatchers tend to do well out of Holmes Park; the moorland attracts species you won't find in the town below. Kids will manage fine if they're the type who enjoy spotting wildlife and rambling, though there's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring what you need.

It works perfectly as a leg-stretcher if you're based at Old Chamber Camping nearby - that site's well-regarded and only three miles away. Pop into Hebden Bridge itself for food and supplies before or after. The reserve itself is free to access, which is always a bonus. Go in the morning for the best chance of seeing wildlife, and avoid the wettest days unless you don't mind bog. Worth the trip if you're after genuine moorland, not if you want manicured trails and tea shops.