Beaconhill Gorse

The gorse on Beaconhill lights up yellow come spring, and it's worth timing a visit around that. You get proper views across Wiltshire from up here - the sort of thing that makes you understand why people have lived in this corner of England for millennia.

It's a straightforward woodland walk with open heathland mixed in. The gorse itself is thorny stuff, so wear decent trousers if you're planning to poke about. Most people spend an hour, hour and a half wandering the paths without feeling rushed. Kids will find it interesting enough for that duration, though it's not the sort of place you'd pack a full day around.

The forest sits about five miles outside Salisbury, which means you're within easy reach of the market town's pubs and cafes when you've finished. If you're based at Salisbury Hillside Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite, it's a quick drive. Free to visit, naturally - just rock up and start walking.

Best visited when the gorse is in bloom, really. Out of season it's pleasant enough, but you're mainly getting woodland rather than anything special. The paths can get muddy after rain, so check the forecast. Worth the detour if you're spending a long weekend in the area, but don't plan your entire trip around it.