The Woodland Trust The Birches

The Birches is a proper woodland walk just outside Belper, run by the Woodland Trust and completely free to explore. You're walking through deciduous trees - mostly birch, naturally - with decent paths that meander through what feels like genuine countryside rather than a manicured nature reserve. The whole thing takes a couple of hours maximum if you're not rushing, though you could easily spend longer just sitting about if the mood takes you.

Walkers will get the most from this one. It's not a destination that demands a full day - there's no visitor centre, no café, no facilities to speak of - but as a morning or afternoon break during a park-based holiday in the area, it's exactly what you need. Families with younger kids might find it a bit samey after an hour; teenagers who actually like the outdoors will appreciate the lack of crowds. Spring brings bluebells, autumn gives you proper woodland colours. Winter's fine too if you don't mind damp.

Based near Belper, The Birches sits well within reach of several excellent caravan parks - Lickpenny Matlock is just five miles away, and the two Carsington Water sites offer brilliant bases if you're planning to explore the wider area. Carsington Fields is particularly strong for longer stays. Combine this reserve with walks around Carsington Water itself and you've got a solid few days of outdoor activity without pretention. It's the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan around, and that's entirely the point.