Longford Park

You'll find yourself walking through proper woodland the moment you arrive at Longford Park, just west of Coventry. It's a nature reserve that feels genuinely wild despite being so close to the city - ancient trees, open water, the whole lot. The main attraction here is simply pottering about on the paths, spotting whatever's about seasonally. Waterfowl in winter, amphibians if you're lucky, and the occasional deer if you time it right.

Walkers get the most from this one, especially those content with a gentle two or three hours exploring without needing visitor facilities or cafe stops. It's not dramatic or showy. There's no visitor centre drama, no playgrounds, no information boards telling you what you should be seeing. You either want quiet woodland walking or you don't.

Families with young kids might find it a bit underwhelming after an hour - there's limited variety and nowhere to grab a drink. Older children who like spotting birds or hunting for wildlife will have a proper time though.

If you're staying at either Hollyfast or 5 Ways Lakes, both within five miles, Longford Park makes an easy morning jaunt. It's genuinely free to visit, open during daylight hours year-round, and fits nicely as a break from caravan life without needing to travel far. Go when it's been wet - the reserve shows itself better then.