Forest bathing at Boilton Wood and Brockholes

Boilton, Nab, Red Scar and Tunbrook Woods follow the River Ribble on the edge of Preston, and the Lancashire Wildlife Trust describes them as one of the largest remaining areas of ancient semi-natural deciduous woodland in the North West. Together they cover about 70 hectares, mainly sycamore, elm, ash and oak, on the steep bank above the river. In spring Boilton Wood is carpeted with bluebells.

You reach the woods through Brockholes nature reserve, where you pay to park. The main path through Boilton Wood is surfaced and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, which makes it one of the easier ancient woods in Lancashire for a slow walk. The branch up to Red Scar Wood has a long, steep flight of steps. Dogs are not allowed, and the northern end of the woods is private.