Southwick Wood Nature Reserve

The woodland path through Southwick Wood opens up suddenly, and you're surrounded by oak and beech that's been here longer than most of us will be alive. It's a proper working nature reserve just outside Peterborough - the sort of place where you actually spot things rather than just hoping you might. Woodpeckers, nuthatches, deer if you're quiet enough and lucky. The walking is straightforward; a network of trails that don't demand fell boots, though it does get muddy after rain.

This works well for families who aren't after theme parks and screaming kids - bring binoculars and a bird book and you've got a solid morning. Serious walkers will find it a bit limited on its own, but it's the sort of place you'd combine with a broader route through the area. The reserve is free to access, though there's no visitor centre, so come prepared with a map or navigation app.

Stay at Castle Farm Campsite just down the road and you've got proper woodland walking on your doorstep. Rockingham Forest Park, a few miles further on, gives you more ambitious trails if Southwick feels too gentle. New Lodge Farm Bulwick is another solid base if you're after a cluster of reserves and forest walks. Worth an hour or so if you're in the area; don't make it your only reason to visit Northamptonshire.