Peake's Covert

A proper woodland walk rather than a destination in itself, Peake's Covert offers quiet forest cover a few miles outside Leicester - the sort of place you slip into between other activities rather than plan a whole day around. The trees are dense enough that you'll feel properly removed from the city, with decent paths threading through mixed woodland where you might spot woodland birds and the occasional jogger.

Walkers will find it useful, particularly families wanting something low-key within striking distance of Leicester's attractions. There's nothing showy about it - no visitor centre, no marked trails with interpretive boards, just forest. Allow 45 minutes to an hour if you're taking it slowly; considerably less if you're just after a quick leg-stretch. The undergrowth can be muddy after rain, so proper footwear matters.

What makes it work for a camping holiday is proximity. If you're based at Emily's Cut Camping or Reas Glamping Retreat at Zillahs Spinney - both within three miles - you've got immediate access to green space without driving to Peak District-style destinations. Eye Kettleby Lakes is close too if you fancy water alongside woodland. Early morning or late afternoon tends quieter than midday, when dog walkers congregate.

It's free, obviously, and there's no red tape about access. Worth adding to an itinerary if you're camping locally and want woodland air, but don't expect signage, facilities, or anything dramatic. Just trees, paths, and the kind of unassuming English forest that does its job without fuss.