Ben Knowle Wood

A decent woodland walk on the outskirts of Wells, Ben Knowle Wood offers a proper escape without needing to drive far from town. The trees here are mixed - oak, beech, and conifers - and in autumn the colour is genuinely worth making time for. You'll find a network of paths that loop through the wood, taking anywhere from twenty minutes to an hour depending on how much you fancy wandering.

The main appeal is straightforward: it's local, it's free, and it clears your head. The ground can be muddy after rain, so proper boots are advisable rather than trainers. Families with younger children will manage the paths fine, though there's nothing dramatic or particularly memorable that will keep kids entertained for hours. Walkers and anyone just needing a breath of fresh air will get more from it.

Timing-wise, spring and autumn are best - the wood feels a bit gloomy in deep winter, and summer midges can be annoying depending on the year. You won't need more than ninety minutes here, so slot it in as a morning walk before exploring Wells Cathedral or the town's market square.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Cathedral View Glamping is barely two miles away, and Old Oaks Touring just under four - this makes a solid addition to a Somerset break. It's not the sort of wood that justifies a trip on its own, but it rounds out a day well.