Waddesdon Diamond Jubilee Wood

Walk into Waddesdon Diamond Jubilee Wood and you're immediately surrounded by mature beech and oak - proper woodland, the kind that makes you forget you're in Buckinghamshire. It was planted to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012, so it's still relatively young as these things go, but the trees have filled out nicely and created genuine shade and shelter.

There's a network of paths threading through, ranging from gentle strolls to proper woodland walks. The ground is soft underfoot, which means it can get muddy after rain - bring decent boots. It's the sort of place where you can lose an hour without trying, wandering between the trees and spotting whatever wildlife is about. No crowds, no visitor centre, just woods. You won't find facilities here, so plan accordingly.

History buffs will appreciate the Jubilee connection, but honestly, this is more about the walking than any exhibition or interpretation. Families with young children might find it a bit ordinary - there's no playground or obvious attractions beyond the woodland itself. But if you're the type who enjoys a proper forest walk and you're staying around Buckingham, it's absolutely worth the diversion. The nearby Embers Camping at Claydon makes a decent base if you're planning several days exploring the area.

Give yourself a couple of hours if you want to see it properly rather than just dashing through. The best times are spring for bluebells and autumn for the colour, though it's pleasant enough year-round.