Buckley Wood

The woodland around Buckley Wood, just outside Wells, is the kind of place you stumble upon rather than plan for. Ancient oak and beech trees create a proper canopy that keeps things cool even on the warmest days, and the forest floor is thick enough that your footsteps barely make a sound. It's compact - you won't need more than an hour or so to walk through - but the path winds in a way that makes it feel like you've covered far more ground than you actually have.

This works best for families with younger kids who want a short forest wander without committing to a full-day hike. Walkers might find it a bit brief, but it's ideal if you're staying at Cathedral View Glamping or Wells Touring Park and want to stretch your legs before heading into town for dinner. The woodland is particularly good in autumn when the light filters through the thinning canopy at that perfect low angle.

Access appears to be free and there are no formal restrictions, though it's worth checking locally in Wells before you visit as information isn't widely published online. The forest sits well within reach of the town's cathedral and high street, so you could easily make it part of a longer afternoon exploring the area. On a grey Somerset day when you can't face being properly outdoors, this wood feels sheltered and contemplative - not dramatic, but genuinely pleasant.