Rough Wood

Dense woodland stretches across several acres just outside Newark, offering proper forest walks without the manicured feel of many country parks. Rough Wood lives up to its name - this isn't somewhere for pushchairs or pristine trainers. The paths can get muddy after rain, and fallen branches create natural obstacles that kids love scrambling over.

Families staying at nearby parks like Trentfield Farm or Four Seasons Country Park will find it a refreshing change from theme park queues. The woodland feels genuinely wild, with plenty of opportunities for den-building and nature spotting. My seven-year-old spent a good hour constructing elaborate fairy houses from twigs and moss.

Walkers can easily lose an hour or two exploring the various tracks, though don't expect waymarked routes or detailed maps. It's free to wander, assuming access remains open, and early morning visits offer the best chance of spotting deer. The forest floor comes alive with bluebells in spring, making it particularly lovely for a family ramble.

Bring wellies rather than walking boots - the terrain varies from firm paths to boggy patches. It's not a destination in itself, but makes a decent morning out when combined with other Newark area attractions.