Little Paxton Wood

The woodland at Little Paxton sits just east of St. Neots and feels like proper walking country - the sort of place where you can lose an afternoon without trying. It's not vast, so don't expect to be deep in the forest for hours, but the paths wind through mature trees in a way that makes you feel removed from the main road that runs nearby.

This is ideal for walkers wanting something gentle. You'll find mixed woodland with decent undergrowth, bird life if you know what you're listening for, and enough quiet to think straight. Families with younger kids will manage it fine - the terrain isn't demanding and you can make the walk as short or long as you fancy. The woodland opens up near the water's edge in places, which breaks up the monotony nicely.

You can probably allow anything from forty minutes to two hours depending on how slowly you're moving. Spring's best for bluebells and fresh growth, though autumn colours are decent too. Summer can feel a bit dense and damp underneath the canopy.

If you're staying at St. Neots Camping and Caravanning Club Site, it's barely three miles away - close enough for a morning walk before heading somewhere else. Grafham Water Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is only slightly further, and combines nicely with a waterside walk there. Little Paxton Wood won't be the reason you come to Cambridgeshire, but it's absolutely worth the detour if you're in the area and the weather's decent.