Fisher's Copse

Fisher's Copse is a proper woodland walk just outside Petersfield - nothing fancy, just beech and oak trees, dappled light, and the kind of quiet you don't get near towns. There's a network of paths threading through, ranging from gentle strolls to slightly more ambitious rambles depending on which route you take. It's the sort of place where you'll actually hear birds instead of traffic.

Walkers will find the most reward here. History buffs might enjoy knowing they're treading ground that's been forested for centuries, but don't come expecting interpretation boards or visitor facilities - this is raw woodland, which is precisely why it's worth visiting. Kids under eight might lose interest after twenty minutes, but older ones who can manage a proper hike will get something genuine out of it.

There's no visitor centre or facilities that I'm aware of, so come prepared. The beauty of Fisher's Copse is that it slots perfectly into a broader exploration of the South Downs area. If you're staying at Woodlands Camping just four miles away, it's an easy morning walk before heading elsewhere. Hampshire Hills, five miles off, gives you a solid base for a longer stay - you could easily spend a day combining Fisher's Copse with walks across the surrounding countryside.

Go on a weekday if you can. Weekends pull in the whole of the South Downs crowd, and the narrow paths get a bit congested. Allow two to three hours depending on which route you choose. Free access, naturally.