Martins Wood

The woodland around Martins Wood, just east of Hitchin, is proper solid walking territory. You get mature trees, decent paths, and the sort of quiet that makes you remember why you wanted to leave the town in the first place.

It's not a destination that demands hours - most people will get what they came for in an hour or so. The wood itself is straightforward: established forest with enough variation to keep your boots happy. Walkers will appreciate it more than casual visitors. Families with younger kids might find it a bit samey after a while, but if your lot enjoys exploring between trees and spotting wildlife, there's enough to occupy them.

Timing-wise, spring's when it livens up properly - bluebells and new growth make it worth the trip. Summer's fine but can feel a touch airless under the canopy. Autumn's also decent if you don't mind the damp.

If you're staying at Baldock Park Homes, just 4.4 miles away, this works as an easy morning or afternoon leg-stretch. It's close enough that you won't waste a chunk of your day travelling, far enough that it feels like a proper outing rather than a stroll around the caravan park. Radwell Lake campsite is a bit further out at 6.2 miles, but still within reasonable striking distance if you fancy mixing woodland walks with your holiday routine.

Bring good boots. The ground gets boggy in patches, especially after rain.