Forest bathing at Chopwell Wood

Chopwell Wood is a Forestry England woodland of around 360 hectares near High Spen, on the Gateshead side of the Derwent Valley. It is a mix of conifer and broadleaf, and an old railway line that once carried coal runs through it, with restored coal trucks beside the path. It is big enough that you can leave the car park behind quickly and walk for a good while under the trees.

Start at the main car park. The easy access trail is a 0.7 mile loop through the pine woodland next to it, on a compact stone surface with a few short slopes, with sculptures and picnic tables along the way. For something longer, follow the Old Railway Footpath or the boundary walk. Mountain bikers use the wood too, so stay on the walking routes. Parking is free.