Ashington Wood

A proper woodland walk on the outskirts of Yeovil that doesn't require a map or a planning meeting to enjoy. Ashington Wood is straightforward - ancient trees, narrow paths, the occasional patch of bluebells if you time it right in spring. Nothing flashy, just decent forest cover and enough space to actually lose the sound of traffic.

Walkers will get the most from this one. It's the sort of place where you can stretch your legs for an hour without it turning into an expedition, though you could easily potter about for longer if the mood takes. Families with younger kids might find it a touch dull after twenty minutes - there's no playground, no café, no obvious focal point. But if you're after a quiet woodland stretch between bigger attractions, it does the job.

The footpaths are fairly clear, though muddy stretches are guaranteed after rain. Access appears to be free, which is refreshing. Head there mid-week if you can, because weekends bring out the local dog-walkers and it loses some of its peace.

For a park holiday, Long Hazel Park sits just under five miles away - a solid caravan spot with decent reviews - so you could easily knock out an hour in the woods before returning for lunch. It's not the sort of destination you'd drive an hour to reach, but if you're camped nearby and fancy a woodland stretch without the tourist crowds, Ashington Wood will serve you well enough.