Boldridge Brake

Boldridge Brake is a proper woodland walk just outside Malmesbury, the sort of place that feels genuinely tucked away despite being minutes from town. It's ancient broadleaf forest - oak and beech mostly - with decent paths that wind through without being overly manicured. The canopy does its job on grey days, and in spring it's absolutely worth the trip for bluebells.

You're looking at an hour or so for a decent circuit, maybe less if you're just after a quick leg-stretch. It's free to access, which helps. The paths can get a bit muddy after rain, so proper boots are essential rather than optional. Families with young kids will manage fine on the main trails, though there's not much in the way of play equipment or facilities - it's genuinely just trees and air.

Historically types will get a kick out of knowing they're walking through woodland that's been here for centuries, but don't expect signage telling you much about it. What you get is the forest itself, which is the whole point really.

If you're staying at Malmesbury Glamping at Whychurch Farm or Burton Hill Caravan & Camping Park, this is your closest woodland option for stretching your legs without driving anywhere. It pairs well with a visit into Malmesbury town itself - pop in for lunch, then come back for a forest walk before supper. On a decent day it's well worth the detour.