Wilderness

The Wilderness is a sprawling forest just outside Otley that feels worlds away from the market town despite being barely five minutes' drive. It's proper woodland - the kind where you can actually lose yourself for a couple of hours without worrying you've strayed into someone's back garden.

Walking through here is straightforward enough. The paths wind through beech and oak, and there are enough of them that you won't feel hemmed in. Bring the kids and they'll have a decent time spotting things, clambering over fallen logs, and generally burning off energy. It's not dramatic scenery - no dramatic drop-offs or rare plants to get excited about - but that's partly the appeal. This is quiet, honest woodland without the crowds you'd find at bigger attractions.

If you're staying at Windmill Retreats nearby, the Wilderness makes a natural morning walk before heading into Otley proper for lunch. Realistically, allow 90 minutes to two hours here depending on pace and how much mucking about your lot does. There's no visitor centre or facilities that I'm aware of, so come prepared - decent boots if it's been wet, and bring a packed lunch if you're making a real morning of it.

It's free to wander about, which helps justify the visit. Not a destination in itself, but absolutely worth the detour if you're in the area and fancy stretching your legs somewhere green.