Brickkiln Copse

A proper woodland walk rather than a showpiece attraction, Brickkiln Copse sits just outside Hungerford in Berkshire and does exactly what it says on the tin - it's a wood to walk through. The trees are mature, the paths are generally well-maintained, and it's the kind of place where you'll actually hear birds instead of your own footsteps echoing back at you.

The copse itself is nothing theatrical. You won't find a visitor centre or car park attendant, which is rather the point. It's a genuine pocket of working forest, and that authenticity is what makes it worth the detour if you're staying in the area. The walking is straightforward enough for families with young kids, though the ground can get muddy after rain - wellies aren't a bad shout.

If you're based at Lorne Hill Farm just down the road, this is a lovely forty-minute loop to stretch your legs without the crowds of more famous woods. Walkers will get the most out of it; it's not a destination that demands a full afternoon, but it's brilliant for clearing your head between other activities. Spring brings bluebells, which are worth timing a visit around if you can.

Best approached as part of a wider Hungerford exploration rather than a standalone trip. The nearby village has decent pubs and shops, so you can make a proper morning of it without treating Brickkiln Copse as the main event.