Sat in the heart of the Denbigh Moors, this forest is peppered with waymarked trails. Each path promises unique sights, with some leading past secret waterfalls (Rhyd y Gaseg) and others to hilltop monuments (Pincyn Llys). Animal lovers can spend some time trying to spot rare black grouse and elusive red squirrels, or following the Coed y Fron Wyllt path through ancient woodland to a wetland wildlife viewing hide.

This isolated spot in the Scottish Borders is a woodland idyll - the perfect place in which to enjoy some tranquility amongst the trees. Visitors wandering Craik Forest's routes will be delighted by striking sights such as the Wolfcleuch Waterfall, and can take in sweeping views of the surroundings from the top of Crib Law (a hill which summits at almost 1,400 feet).

The Brechfa Forest in Carmarthenshire, spanning around 6,500 hectares, covers part of the ancient forest of Glyn Cothi. Start an exploration of this magical setting by following one of the three walking paths that begin close to the friendly nearby village of Abergorlech. Take the Forest Garden Trail to see trees from across the globe, including sessile oak, nothofagus, and towering redwoods.

From waterside walks around Llyn Parc and Llyn Elsi to strolls leading through majestic old douglas firs, a day spent exploring the Gwydir Forest in the Snowdonia National Park guarantees some stunning sights. Prepare for well-appointed picnic areas, panoramic viewpoints overlooking mountains such as Moel Siabod, and plenty of waymarked trails - many of which start near the chocolate box village of Betws-y-coed.

The largest surviving section of Scotland's ancient Caledonian Pine Forest, this unspoilt Cairngorms National Park destination is rich in history as well as woodland and wildlife. The majority of the forest is included in the Abernethy National Nature Reserve, and it is home to animals including red deer, pine martens, and even wild cats.

With beech and ash as the dominant tree species, Brighstone Forest - the largest on the Isle of Wight, located in the island's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - is another location in which tranquility-seeking travellers can admire the vivid colours of changing leaves. Loop into the forest on walking routes such as the Tennyson Trail, a section of which traces through the trees, or explore by bike or on horseback.

Located on the National Trust's Killerton Estate in East Devon, Ashclyst Forest is an ideal destination for admiring autumnal hues, with deciduous trees such as beech, ash, oak and hazel towering above. Visitors can enjoy ambling through the woodland while being treated to vibrant displays of red, orange, and golden leaves, while dogs can (in some areas and under close control) explore off lead.

This forest, nestled in the North York Moors National Park less than ten miles inland from the seaside town of Scarborough, is a real hidden gem - and a superlative setting for birdwatchers. Amble through the woods towards Raptor Viewpoint, from whence walkers can catch glances of birds of prey including honey buzzards, goshawks and red kites.

With a wooden adventure playground, a visit to Dalbeattie Forest will keep the whole family happy. Of this destination's waymarked routes, families with younger children might also enjoy the gentle, mile-long Birch Trail. Walkers can find even more charming autumnal views on the Plantain Loch Trail, with its picturesque waterside setting, while the Quarry Trail offers insights as to Dalbeattie's industrial heritage.

Another top-scoring spot in the Cairngorms, Glenmore Forest Park's rugged pines, which encircle the crystal clear waters and golden sands of Loch Morlich, make it a setting of breathtaking beauty. Activities abound all year round, with hiking and biking supplemented by water sports on the lake in the summer, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the colder months.