Bagmoor Shaw

Walking into Bagmoor Shaw feels like stepping into proper woodland England - tall beeches, dense undergrowth, the kind of place where you half-expect to bump into a gamekeeper. It's a working forest near Henley-on-Thames, and what you get is genuine woodland rather than manicured parkland. Paths wind through, though they can be muddy after rain and aren't always obvious, so a map helps.

This is walker territory, frankly. The forest works well as a morning excursion or a quiet afternoon break if you're based at one of the nearby parks - Chiltern Retreat or Shillingridge Glamping are both within easy reach and a decent walk from here clears the head. You won't find facilities or facilities or cafés, so come prepared. Allow two hours for a proper mooch about, less if you're just after a quick leg-stretch.

Families with older kids will manage fine. Younger ones might find it a bit dull without a specific trail or playground, and there's not much to actually do - you're here for the trees, the quiet, and the sense of being away from things. If you're staying in the area and fancy something more structured, the Henley riverside is ten minutes away and altogether more entertaining for a family afternoon.

Free to access, though it's not widely promoted or signed. Go on a weekday if possible - weekends can get surprisingly busy with local dog walkers.