With twisted trees stretching out of the ground like wizened fingers, winding mossy verges and colourful carpets of wild flowers, Ashridge Estate woodland is straight out a fairytale. In fact, it’s played an enchanted forest in two Disney films: ‘Maleficent’ and ‘Into the Woods’. The best way to explore its ancient beech and oak woodlands is on foot: there are miles of footpaths and bridleways stretching through the trees.