Knockerhill Wood

Wander off the beaten track south of Hereford and you'll find this pocket of ancient woodland that most visitors drive straight past. Knockerhill Wood sprawls across several acres of mixed deciduous forest, where oak and ash trees tower overhead and brambles weave between the trunks.

The paths here aren't signposted or sanitised - this is proper countryside rambling where you might need to duck under low branches or step over fallen logs. Wildlife watchers will love the early morning visits when deer browse quietly between the trees and woodland birds are most active.

Families with older children who enjoy a bit of adventure will get the most from this place, though it's not suitable for pushchairs or anyone wanting a gentle stroll. The terrain can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain.

You could easily spend two hours exploring if you're keen on nature photography or bird watching. Come in autumn when the leaf colour is spectacular, or spring when bluebells carpet the woodland floor.

If you're camping nearby at Ridge Hill or Broadmeadow Glamping, both just over a mile away, it's a lovely spot for a morning walk before breakfast. The more established Lucksall Caravan & Camping Park is under five miles away and makes a good base for exploring this part of Herefordshire's countryside.