Oaks Wood

The woodland stretches quiet and proper green, a genuine relief if you're based around Huntingdon and fancy something more than flat fenland views. Oaks Wood is just that - a straightforward woodland walk where the canopy does its job of blocking out the sky and the paths keep you moving without faffing about.

You'll find oak, naturally, along with birch and the usual East Anglian mix. The walking is easy, nothing steep, and it's the sort of place where you can actually hear birds if you're not crashing about. Allow an hour or so for a proper mooch, longer if you're the type to stop and identify trees - which is fair enough in a wood, really.

For families it works, though it won't blow anyone's mind if they're used to proper forests elsewhere. Younger kids might lose interest after forty minutes unless you make a game of spotting wildlife. History hunters won't find much - it's contemporary woodland, not some ancient reserve with a backstory.

If you're staying at Crystal Lakes Leisure nearby, it's worth the drive as a half-day outing to get off the park and into something living. Best in spring when there's actual birdsong and the green's not dreary. Free access, no car park nonsense that I'm aware of - just turn up and walk. Rain makes it proper muddy though, so choose your day.