(45 minute drive) Fermyn Woods Country Park is in the heart of Rockingham Fore st in Northamptonshire. We love the Northamptonshire website, each country park has a downloadable map and clear signs. It's worth the 45 minute drive to get there. Fermyn Woods has a lot in a small space, and is quite understated on the website. There is a cafe, a huge adventure play area for children and some gorgeous trails that are clearly marked. £2.50 for car parking again but today I think it's worth it.
 

Irchester Country Park

(50 minutes drive)  £2.50 was a bit steep. This former ironstone quarry has a wonderful children's play area as well as a network of long and short trails through 83 hectares of mixed woodland. The park is home to the Quarryman's Rest Cafe, Jungle Parc UK and the Irchester Narrow Gauge Railway museum. We walked past the quarry and viewpoint into the quarry. It has a troll bridge, multiple tree plantations, ponds, play area and café. 

Website >>

Gamlingay Woods

(16 minute drive) Parking on a track on the entrance, like many wildlife trust places, there is a map at the entrance but nowhere else but no matter, you just get lost trekking on the paths. It's a very well maintained woodland, shelter but a little more info as you go around would be nice. Nice and quiet though, well worth a second visit.

Website >>