The Oval Park

You'll find yourself in proper countryside here - The Oval Park is a nature reserve that delivers exactly what East Yorkshire does best: wide open spaces and genuine quiet. It's the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think, which feels rarer by the year.

The reserve sits just outside York and works brilliantly as a break from town wandering. There's a decent circular walk through the site, taking in grassland and whatever birds happen to be about that day. Winter's quieter but you might spot overwintering species; spring brings warblers and nesting birds. It's not dramatic - no cliffs, no woodland cathedral moment - but it rewards a slow pace. Bring binoculars if you're remotely interested in birdwatching, otherwise just let the landscape do the talking.

Families with younger kids might find an hour quite enough; older walkers could happily spend two hours here without feeling rushed. The paths are manageable, though muddy after rain. There's no visitor centre or café, so come prepared.

If you're staying at one of the nearby glamping spots - Wolds Glamping Pods sits just 1.1 miles away, or Yapham Holds at 2.4 miles - this makes a lovely morning outing before heading into York proper. It's the sort of place that settles you into a holiday mood rather than dazzling you with drama. Sometimes that's exactly what you need.