Shaft Field Spinney

A small woodland patch between Kettering and the surrounding countryside, Shaft Field Spinney is the sort of place locals know and outsiders miss. It's not a grand nature reserve or a manicured country estate - just a proper bit of forest where you can actually walk without bumping into coaches full of tourists.

The spinney itself is unremarkable in the best possible way. You get tree-lined paths, a bit of birdsong, and enough space to stretch your legs for twenty minutes or so. It's ideal if you're camped at Northfield Farm or Lakeview Caravan Park nearby and fancy getting off the grass without driving far. The paths are straightforward enough that even restless kids won't kick up a fuss, though you're not looking at a full day's entertainment here.

Timing-wise, you can knock this out in under an hour, so slot it in between other activities rather than making the pilgrimage for it alone. Spring and early autumn are best - muddy in winter, a bit buzzy with insects come midsummer. There's no visitor centre or facilities that I'm aware of, so bring water if it's warm.

Worth the detour? Only if you're already staying in the area. It scratches an itch for a quick woodland wander without pretension, and that counts for something. Don't expect anything photo-worthy or particularly memorable, but sometimes an ordinary walk in actual trees beats another afternoon round the caravan.