Sides Plantation

Walking through Sides Plantation feels like stepping into proper woodland - dense, quiet, and a world away from Ashbourne's market-day bustle just a couple of miles down the road. This is a working forest rather than some manicured nature reserve, which means you get the genuine article: tall conifers, dappled light, and paths that actually feel like you're going somewhere rather than doing laps.

The plantation itself is unremarkable on the surface - commercial forestry isn't Instagram gold - but that's rather the point. If you're after woodland walks without the crowds or the twee signage, this delivers. It's good for stretching your legs on a drizzly afternoon, letting kids burn energy, or simply clearing your head. The paths are firm underfoot even after rain, which counts for a lot in Derbyshire.

For a longer park stay - and you've got solid options nearby like Callow Top or Woodland Caravan Park - Sides fits well as a quieter counterpoint to busier attractions. Don't expect facilities or visitor infrastructure; this is a walk in the wood, not a day out. A hour or ninety minutes is about right unless you're genuinely interested in forestry management.

Best visited in spring when the undergrowth is emerging, or autumn when the place feels properly atmospheric. Summer can be a bit airless among the conifers. Completely free, no gates, no faffing about - just go.