Long Balls Grove

The Forest of Dean sprawls across this corner of Gloucestershire like something from a storybook, and Long Balls Grove sits tucked within it - a proper woodland walk that takes you deep into ancient forest territory. The name alone raises eyebrows, but there's nothing silly about what's here: dense mixed woodland with towering oaks and conifers that block out most of the sky, plus a stream that's worth following if you've got time.

It's the sort of place walkers actually enjoy rather than Instagram tourists. You won't find crowds or polished viewing platforms. What you get instead is quiet forest, decent paths, and the very real sense you've left civilisation behind - all within spitting distance of Coleford. The walk takes a couple of hours at a steady pace, less if you just want a shorter loop. Bring wellies if it's been wet; this isn't a manicured park.

Families with kids old enough to enjoy a proper forest ramble will get the most from it. If your children need benches and cafes every twenty minutes, look elsewhere. History types might appreciate knowing this is part of the ancient Royal Forest of Dean, though there's nothing obviously medieval to gawk at.

It's free, naturally. Best visited in autumn when the light filters through properly, though summer's fine if you don't mind the mud. From any of the nearby campsites - Bracelands or Greenacres are closest - this makes a cracking morning or afternoon out. Takes you away from the main forest tourist circuit without requiring serious navigation skills.