Sun Wood

Sun Wood is a proper woodland walk just outside Bishop Auckland - the sort of place you'd stumble upon while exploring County Durham's forests rather than plan a special trip for. It's a mixed woodland with decent paths running through it, good for stretching your legs without committing to a full fell hike.

The canopy's thick enough to feel like you've actually left civilisation, even though you're minutes from town. Come spring, the bluebells do their thing. Autumn's when the light filters through properly - golden and sharp. You'll see plenty of dog walkers and families with pushchairs on weekends.

Families with younger kids will get a solid hour out of it. Older children might find it a bit tame unless they're genuinely into spotting birds or identifying trees. If you're staying at Leekworth or Mickleton Mill - both excellent caravan parks within striking distance - this makes a decent afternoon break without dragging you halfway across the county. Westgate's slightly further but same principle applies.

Bring proper shoes; the paths get muddy and rooty after rain. There's no visitor facilities that I could find, so sort your drink situation beforehand. It's free to access, which is the one thing that keeps it on the itinerary during a park holiday - quick, costs nothing, and breaks up a day of site life without being precious about it.