With the cost-of-living crisis biting, perhaps a simpler and more environmentally friendly way to spend our free time is needed this January!
With that in mind, the Woodland Trust has come up with a guide to some of its best woods for a glorious winter walk for all the family to enjoy.
The Woodland Trust has more than 1,000 woods which are all free to visit and open every day so we’re spoilt for choice.
The new year is a perfect time to embrace the simpler things in life, whether that’s time spent with friends and loved ones, enjoying some magnificent scenery or just getting outdoors and enjoying a bit of fresh air.
Woodland Trust site manager James Jesson said: “Our woods are real winter wonderlands – so whether it’s a crisp and frosty morning or a damp and soggy afternoon, it’s great to pull on your boots and thermals or waterproofs and head out for an invigorating stroll.
“Winter woods take on a whole new character. Spectacular, frosty landscapes and bare branches expose elusive wildlife and hidden history.
“The fact they are all free to visit is just the icing on the cake!”
If you follow the woodland paths, you won’t disturb wildlife and will allow nature to thrive in its woodland surroundings.
You can find your nearest free woodland escape easily at woodlandtrust.org.uk/findawood or for inspiration read on to see which woodlands made the pick of the best winter walks around the UK.
Archers Wood – Cambridgeshire
An ancient woodland haven nestling in an agricultural landscape, Archers Wood is a real oasis for nature. Wander among majestic oak and field maple trees and watch carefully for a shy fox or deer in the distance.
Londonthorpe Wood – Lincolnshire
Just a stone’s throw from historic Belton House and neighbouring a wild deer sanctuary, Londonthorpe Wood is perfect for a winter stroll. There are new all-weather paths and there’s a mix of old and new woodland to explore.
Tring Park – Hertfordshire
A 10-minute stroll from Tring’s famous Natural History Museum, there are lots of hidden treasures to find at Tring Park. Climb the hill for amazing views of Hertfordshire and the Chilterns.
Hackfall – Yorkshire
Set in a 350ft gorge along the River Ure on the edge of the village of Grewelthorpe this fragile ancient woodland habitat has been restored since the Woodland Trust took over. Stroll along footpaths and woodland walks and spot grottos and glades, temples and waterfalls as well as kingfisher, dipper and grey wagtail.
Smithills Estate – Lancashire
The Woodland Trust’s largest site is steeped in history and shadowed by the famous Winter Hill tv mast, with panoramic views across to Bolton and Manchester. You’ll really be able to stretch your legs here in its vast expanses of moorland, patches of woodland and peat bog. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive brown hare on the horizon.
Home Farm – Hampshire
Eight miles of pathway through this mosaic of old and new woodland habitats will tire out the most energetic winter walker. Look up and see if you can spot a red kite or a kestrel wheeling overhead.
Credenhill Park – Herefordshire
Credenhill Park Wood is a local landmark on an imposing wooded hill, topped by one of the largest Iron Age Hill forts in England and thought to have once been an Iron Age tribal capital. The walk to the top, where you can revel in views to Wales, is well worth it and when trees are bare, you’re more likely to spot woodpeckers tapping the trees.
Lineover Wood – Gloucestershire
A patchwork of ancient woodland, recent planting and limestone grassland creates a diverse haven for wildlife where rare plants and fungi flourish. The wood lies within the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and offers breathtaking views across Cheltenham and the Malvern Hills.
