Shaley Wood

You'll find Shaley Wood just outside Holmfirth, a proper bit of Yorkshire woodland that rewards a decent walk more than it rewards a quick pop-in. It's the kind of place where you can actually breathe - old trees, decent paths, and enough space to feel like you've actually gone somewhere rather than just wandered round a car park.

The wood itself is fairly straightforward: footpaths wind through mixed woodland with patches of open ground. On a clear day you get decent views across the moorland, and if you're lucky you'll spot birds and maybe a few deer moving through. It's not dramatic - no waterfalls or ruined castles - but that's rather the point. This is walking country, and if you're the type who appreciates an hour rambling about without a fixed destination, you'll get on with it fine.

Families with younger kids might find it a bit dull after thirty minutes - there's not much to look at specifically, just trees and paths. Serious walkers, though, will appreciate it as part of the bigger Holmfirth loop. The nearest campsites are Whitegate Leisure just 2.3 miles away and Thurlmoor Farm at 3.5 miles, both sensible bases if you're doing a few days round the area.

Go in spring or autumn when the light's better and you won't roast in summer heat. Don't expect facilities - this is a walk, not a visitor attraction with a café. Allow a couple of hours if you're doing it properly.