Kingston Pool Covert

Dense woodland stretches for miles around this proper Staffordshire forest, where ancient oaks tower above a carpet of bracken and bluebells in spring. Kingston Pool Covert sits between Stafford and the wider countryside, offering the sort of peaceful woodland walks that clear your head after too many nights in a holiday park.

Dog walkers absolutely love this spot - the network of footpaths gives plenty of scope for a proper ramble without worrying about traffic or crowds. Families with older children who fancy a bit of exploring will find enough here for a morning's adventure, though toddlers might struggle with some of the uneven terrain.

What strikes you most is how quiet it gets once you're properly among the trees. The birdsong takes over from any distant road noise, and you'll often have whole sections of woodland to yourself. Spring brings the best show when the forest floor erupts in bluebells, but autumn runs it close with the leaf colours.

From nearby parks like Stable Park Holiday Park or The White Lodge, it's an easy drive for when you need to escape the caravan site bustle. Allow a couple of hours if you want to do it justice - the paths can be muddy after rain, so come prepared with decent footwear. Not exactly thrilling for teenagers, but proper countryside therapy for everyone else.