Thorns Wood

The walk into Thorns Wood from Barnard Castle hits you straightaway - proper dense woodland, the sort where you lose mobile signal within minutes and actually feel like you've stepped away from things. It's a working forest rather than some manicured nature reserve, which means you get the real deal: uneven paths, fallen branches to step over, and the occasional muddy section that'll test your boots.

This is walker territory, full stop. The woodland paths meander through mixed trees and open out into clearings where you can actually breathe. It's the kind of place where an hour disappears without you noticing, though if you're with restless kids under eight, they might get a bit bored once the novelty of jumping in puddles wears off. Teenagers and serious hikers will find it worthwhile - there's enough trail to explore and the peace is genuine.

Access appears to be free, though you'd want to check locally in Barnard Castle before setting out as details aren't always well publicised for smaller woodlands. Go when it's dry if possible - the paths can get boggy and slippery in wet weather. Allow two to three hours if you're meandering rather than just cutting straight through.

Stay at one of the caravan sites nearby - Thorpe Farm Centre is just 2.3 miles away, or the Barnard Castle Camping and Caravanning Club Site at 4.1 miles if you want proper facilities. From either, Thorns Wood makes a solid afternoon outing alongside exploring Barnard Castle's market square and riverside walks.