Watkin's Spring North

Head east from Stevenage and you'll find yourself in proper woodland at Watkin's Spring North. It's a forest walk rather than a manicured attraction - the kind of place where you're actually among trees instead of being herded around a car park. The spring itself feeds into a small stream that runs through the site, which makes it rather pleasant in summer when everything's green and the air feels fresher than it does back in town.

This is best suited to walkers and families with older kids who won't grumble after twenty minutes. The paths are manageable but muddy after rain, so boots are wise. You're looking at anything from an hour to a half-day depending on how much wandering you fancy. There's a genuine sense of being away from the Stevenage sprawl, even though you're barely a few miles out.

If you're staying at Church Farm in nearby Ardeley, Watkin's Spring North makes for a decent morning or afternoon outing - nothing earth-shattering, but it breaks up a park-based holiday nicely. Don't expect facilities or signage to be lavish. This is low-key woodland, the sort of place where you might spot deer if you're lucky and quiet enough. Bring a map or know your way around - there's no visitor centre to point you in the right direction. It's free to access, which helps, though you'll want proper footwear and time to just slow down.