I

f you go down to the woods today you’re sure of a big surprise...

It might be your mates leaping out and shooting you with a laser, or perhaps it’s just the kids – stunned into fascinated silence (for once) by a falconry display or even a kingfisher they’ve spotted on a peaceful walk. Yep, pretty much anything could happen in the National Forest.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, if it involves fresh air you’ll find something to get excited about – from fishing to clay pigeon shooting, cycling to romantic picnics, walks,wildlife and of course, laser quest.

Why not grab a bike from the Forestry Centre and check out some of the trails through the trees? There’s a good circular route that passes the lake, bluebell wood (no prizes for guessing what you’ll see here), the fox covert and the willow dome.

The only complaints you might hear are if you try to leave; but to be honest, that’s not an issue if you book into one of the four luxury self-catering holiday lodges tucked away in the trees.