Leesrigg Plantation

A proper woodland walk through mixed plantation about 5 miles from Wigton - the kind of place locals know about but tourists miss entirely. Leesrigg sits among rolling Cumbrian countryside, and if you're after conifer tracks and some breathing space without the Lake District crowds, it delivers that in spades.

The plantation itself is straightforward: mature trees, forest floor paths, quiet. You won't find dramatic vistas or waterfall drops. What you get instead is the simple pleasure of being somewhere green and undisturbed, especially good if it's drizzly - everything smells better in drizzle. Walkers love it because there's no pretence, no visitor centre, no entrance fee. Come for an hour, come for three, depends on your mood.

Brings families with young legs who need to burn energy without needing entertainment. History buffs will find it dull - it's not ancient woodland, just working forest. But if you're staying at North Lakes Country Park nearby and want a proper walk away from the main attractions, this is well worth the short drive.

Best visited autumn through spring when the ground's firm and you won't be melting in summer humidity. Allow at least 90 minutes if you're going in properly, though there's nothing stopping you doing a quick 30-minute loop. Waterproof jacket essential - Cumbrian rain is democratic.