Mill Wood

Ancient oak and beech trees tower overhead as you follow the winding paths through this proper Powys woodland. Mill Wood feels refreshingly wild compared to the manicured forests you'll find elsewhere - fallen logs create natural seating, and the undergrowth hums with wildlife that actually seems undisturbed by visitors.

Dog walkers will love the freedom here, though keep leads handy as the paths can disappear into bramble thickets without warning. The terrain's uneven enough to keep older children engaged, but pushchairs are a no-go unless you fancy an obstacle course. Twenty minutes from Hereford, it's the sort of place where you lose track of time wandering the unmarked trails.

Bring wellies in anything but high summer - the paths turn properly muddy after rain, and stream crossings can catch you off guard. No facilities mean packing your own refreshments, but that adds to the authentic woodland experience rather than detracting from it.

Staying at nearby Maes Yr Afon or Smithy Park makes this an easy morning escape when the holiday park feels too crowded. Allow a couple of hours to explore properly, though you could easily stretch it to half a day if the weather's cooperating. It's free roaming at its finest - assuming you can actually find the entrance.