Whinny Plantation

The woodland around Whinny Plantation near Holmrook feels properly remote - you're surrounded by conifers and older mixed broadleaf trees without the manicured feel of some Lakeland forests. It's the sort of place where you can actually walk without bumping into a dozen other visitors, which is increasingly rare in Cumbria these days.

There are decent trails threading through, though don't expect anything too dramatic in terms of views or facilities. What you get instead is peaceful woodland walking, the kind where you notice birdsong and the light filtering through the canopy. It's genuinely nice if you're after an easy few miles on foot - maybe two hours without pushing hard.

Families with young kids will find it manageable enough, though it's not a "must visit" destination in itself. Walkers heading between the coast and the fells might appreciate a detour here as a change of pace. The nearby Fisherground Campsite makes it accessible if you're basing yourselves in the area - it's only a couple of miles away and gives you a solid woodland walk option when the weather isn't great for higher ground.

The real appeal here is that it's uncrowded and local. No entrance fees, no visitor centre drama, just trees and paths. That's either exactly what you want or not worth the diversion - depends what you're after.