Kempsey Grove

Dense woodland stretches along the River Severn just outside Worcester, creating one of those proper old English forests where the canopy blocks out most of the daylight. Kempsey Grove feels like stepping back in time - massive oaks and ash trees tower overhead, their branches forming a natural cathedral that's been growing here for centuries.

Dog walkers and families looking for a proper ramble will find plenty to explore. The paths wind through the grove without much signage, which adds to the adventure but means you'll want to keep younger children close. It's the sort of place where you can easily spend a couple of hours if you're not in a hurry.

Being so close to Worcester means it's dead handy for anyone staying at the nearby caravan parks like Seaborne Leisure or Ketch Caravan Park. The grove makes a lovely morning escape before heading into the city centre, and parking seems straightforward enough along the country lanes that border the woodland.

Expect muddy paths after rain - this isn't manicured parkland but genuine old forest. That's rather the point though. Some might find it a bit wild and unstructured, but if you're after a slice of ancient Worcestershire countryside without the crowds, it delivers exactly that.