Jackson's Banks Wood

A proper woodland walk rather than a destination in itself, Jackson's Banks Wood sits just outside Preston and delivers exactly what you'd hope for - tall trees, decent paths, and enough peace to actually hear yourself think. The wood runs along a stream, which keeps things interesting, and there are enough twists in the terrain to stop it feeling flat.

It's the sort of place families with younger kids can manage without complaint, assuming they're reasonably keen walkers. Older children might find it a bit straightforward unless you make a game of spotting wildlife. History buffs won't find much to grip them here - it's genuine woodland rather than anything with backstory.

Allow an hour to ninety minutes depending on which paths you take and how often you stop. There's no charge, no facilities to speak of, and it works best in autumn when the floor isn't a boot-sucking mess. Early morning gets you ahead of any dog walkers.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks nearby - Dale Hey Farm or Northwood are barely fifteen minutes away - this fills a half-day nicely without needing to trek into Preston proper. It's worth the walk from your pitch, though don't bank on it being the highlight of a week. Combine it with Beacon Fell Country Park a few miles on, which has better views and proper facilities. The wood alone is decent filler between bigger plans.