Millplace Coppice

A proper forest walk rather than a destination in itself, Millplace Coppice sits just outside Holmrook and delivers exactly what you'd expect from a Cumbrian woodland - dense tree cover, damp woodland floor, and the kind of quiet that makes you realise how little peace there is elsewhere. The paths thread through mixed woodland, mostly conifer plantation mixed with older hardwoods, and while it won't win any awards for drama, it's the sort of place that works well as a half-hour detour when you're already in the area.

Historically it's been managed coppice woodland - hence the name - which means there's some structure to it rather than just wild growth. You get a sense of that in how the trees are spaced and the various ages of regrowth. It's ideal if you're staying at Fisherground Campsite nearby and want a gentle morning walk before breakfast, or you fancy stretching the legs between proper attractions. Don't expect viewpoints or facilities - this is working forest, not manicured parkland.

The walk takes between thirty minutes and an hour depending on which paths you take. There's no entrance fee that I'm aware of, and you can access it fairly freely. It suits walkers who enjoy woodland for its own sake rather than views or grand vistas. On a damp day it can feel quite atmospheric; in wet weather the paths get boggy fast. Worth a morning visit if you're based locally, but don't plan a day around it.