Little Broom Wood

You'll find Little Broom Wood just outside Worksop, a modest woodland that punches above its weight if you're after a proper walk away from the crowds. The forest floor is thick with undergrowth and the canopy does a decent job of blocking out the world - bring wellies in winter because it gets boggy, especially after rain.

It's the sort of place that appeals most to walkers and nature spotters rather than families looking for a day out with activities. You can spend an hour here easily, maybe two if you're thorough, picking your way through the trees and spotting whatever wildlife the Nottinghamshire scrub decides to show you. There's no visitor centre or facilities as far as I can tell, so come prepared.

What makes it genuinely useful is its proximity to Clumber Park, just four miles south, where the Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite and National Trust lodges give you a proper base. If you're staying in the area, Little Broom Wood works as a quieter alternative to Clumber's busier trails - same region, less footfall. Riverside Caravan Park is closer at just over two miles if you're camping.

It's free to access and there's no admission charge - exactly what you want from a local wood. Don't expect any particular drama or rare sightings, but if you need an honest morning's woodland walk from a Worksop base, this delivers. Go early if you want any chance of solitude.