Ruthin Park

The park sits on the edge of Ruthin itself, though honestly it feels worlds away from the town centre. You're looking at a proper nature reserve - the kind of place where you actually spot wildlife rather than just hoping you might. It's got woodland trails winding through it, open grassland that changes with the seasons, and if you time it right, you'll see birds you don't normally get in your back garden.

For walkers, this is decent ground. The paths are manageable without being a slog, and you can knock out a decent loop in an hour or two depending on how much you dilly-dally. Families with kids who can handle a bit of mud will find it engaging - there's enough space to let them run about without losing sight of them completely. Real history buffs might find the landscape itself interesting, but don't come expecting ruins or visitor centres.

It's free to access, which is always welcome. Go early morning if you want to see animals; late afternoon is quieter if you prefer peace. Winter can be soggy, spring and summer are your best bets.

If you're staying at Clwydian Glamping Pods and Campsite just a few miles away, this makes a natural morning or afternoon excursion. It's the sort of place that works brilliantly as a breather between exploring Ruthin town itself and whatever else you've got planned - not a full-day destination, but absolutely worth an hour or two if you're in the area.