Long Crossey Wood

A proper woodland walk rather than a manicured tourist spot, Long Crossey Wood sits on the outskirts of Garstang and gives you the real Lancashire countryside without the crowds. The forest floor is soft with moss and leaf litter, and you'll find yourself surrounded by mature trees that actually make you feel like you've left civilisation behind - which, given you're barely ten minutes from town, is oddly satisfying.

It's the sort of place where walkers genuinely belong. The paths meander without too much fanfare, and there's something refreshing about a wood that doesn't try to be anything other than a wood. You won't find a visitor centre or waymarked trails screaming for attention. Just trees, peace, and the occasional dog walker doing the same loop you are.

If you're staying at Wilson House Holiday Park down the road, this is an easy half-hour leg-stretcher before or after breakfast. Not the kind of destination you'd drive across the county for, but exactly the sort of place that makes a week in Lancashire actually feel like a break rather than a schedule of attractions. Bring decent shoes - the ground can get boggy after rain - and go early if you want any sense of solitude. Come midday and you'll share it with half the neighbourhood.

Free, naturally. The wood doesn't charge. Allow ninety minutes if you're taking it slowly and want to actually notice things rather than just trudge through.