I was lucky enough to grow up on a farm, and have access to the neighbours land too. Every avaible minute was taken up by making dens in the woods, rope swings, “traps” for animals that never worked. Later came ferreting, then lurchers, then an air gun and finally shotguns.
I still like to get out now, as I type I’m in Carrog, Wales having just walked 18 miles of the Llangollen round. It’s a wonderful walk, but the distance with an overnight backpack has taken its toll on my knees today!