Little Doward Woods

The woodland path up Little Doward drops you straight into proper old-growth forest - the sort of place where you actually have to watch your footing. It's a steep walk from Ross-on-Wye, nothing too demanding, but you'll feel it in your legs on the way down. The trees are genuinely ancient here, gnarled and mossy, and the whole thing has that slightly wild edge you don't get in manicured nature reserves.

You're looking at views over the Wye Valley once you get to the top - not quite as jaw-dropping as you'd hope, but the walk itself is the draw rather than a single vista. It takes about two hours to do the full circuit without rushing, and the woodland never gets boring because the terrain changes constantly. Muddy stretches give way to rockier sections, then you'll stumble onto open glades.

Walkers will get the most out of it. Kids under eight might struggle with the gradient and rough ground; anyone older will find it properly fun rather than a Sunday stroll. There's no cafe or facilities, so bring water and something to eat.

It works well as a morning activity if you're based at Doward Park Campsite just down the road - literally a mile away - or Trippenkennett Farm if you're after something with fishing. Hit it early before the afternoon crowds, though Ross-on-Wye gets busy on weekends. Free admission, no booking needed. Go when it's been dry; it's slippy as anything after rain.