Springs Wood

Springs Wood is a proper working forest just outside Keswick, the sort of place locals know about but tourists often miss while queuing for the lakeside cafes. The main draw is a decent walk through mature woodland with a stream running through it - nothing spectacular, but genuinely pleasant if you've had enough of Derwentwater's crowds. You're looking at a couple of hours maximum, depending on how far you venture in.

It works best for families who want their kids to burn off energy in relatively safe surroundings, or for walkers needing a breather between the big Lake District hikes. The paths are fairly well-maintained, though after rain they can get a bit squelchy. There's nothing in the way of facilities - no cafe, no visitor centre, no loos - so come prepared. Free to access, which is always welcome.

The location makes it useful as a half-day add-on if you're based at one of the nearby caravan parks - Kestrel Lodge or Skiddaw View are within easy striking distance. It's close enough to Keswick itself that you could easily combine it with the town's shops and restaurants, but far enough away to feel like an actual escape.

Honestly, Springs Wood won't make it onto your list of Lake District must-dos, but if the weather's decent and you're after a woodland walk without the drama, it's worth the detour.