Wyndcliff Wood

The walk through Wyndcliff Wood delivers what you want from a Gloucestershire forest - proper woodland, decent views, and enough space to actually feel alone. From Lydney, it's a straightforward drive into a landscape that belongs to the Wye Valley, all densely packed trees and moss-covered rocks underfoot.

You're looking at a mix of broadleaf and conifer woodland with a network of trails that range from gentle ambles to proper leg-work. The main draw is the viewpoint that overlooks the Wye Valley - it's the kind of spot where you understand why people get sentimental about English countryside. The walk itself takes between one and two hours depending on which route you choose and how often you stop to catch your breath.

This works brilliantly if you're camping or glamping in the area. Forest and Wye Valley Caravan and Camping Site sits just five miles away, as does Penhein Glamping, so you can base yourself nearby and spend a morning wandering without needing to trek far from your pitch. Families with kids aged eight upwards will manage it fine - younger ones might need carrying on the steeper bits.

Go early if you can. Weekday mornings mean you'll have the place mostly to yourself, which changes the whole experience. The wood's best after rain when everything smells properly alive. Bring decent boots - the paths get boggy and uneven in places. It's not a destination on its own, but as part of a Forest of Dean or Wye Valley holiday, it's well worth the detour.