Clanger Wood

Ancient beech trees tower overhead as you follow the winding paths through this surprisingly substantial stretch of woodland just outside Westbury. Clanger Wood feels properly wild despite being close to civilization - the kind of place where kids can build proper dens and adults can actually lose themselves for an hour or two.

Walkers will find decent paths threading through the trees, though nothing too challenging. Families with younger children should stick to the main routes as some of the side tracks get a bit overgrown. The wood has that lovely dappled light filtering through the canopy that makes even the most basic phone camera shots look rather good.

What sets this place apart from your average country park woodland is the genuine sense of exploration. No visitor centre, no gift shop, just proper English forest doing its thing. Dog walkers love it here - plenty of space for a good run around without worrying about traffic.

Allow a good hour for a decent wander, longer if you're the type to investigate every fallen log with the kids. It's free, naturally, and makes a cracking addition to a stay at any of the nearby holiday parks like Brokerswood or Fairwood Lakes. Perfect for burning off energy before or after a day exploring Wiltshire's other attractions.