Great Nightingales Copse

Deep woodland walks and birdsong - that's what draws people to Great Nightingales Copse, a proper chunk of forest just outside Reading. The copse itself is a working woodland where you can lose yourself on winding paths for an hour or two, surrounded by mature trees and the actual sound of nightingales if you time it right (May's the month for that). The floor squelches underfoot after rain, which some find atmospheric and others find annoying, depending on your wellies situation.

It's the kind of place that appeals most to walkers who want a genuine woods experience without needing to drive halfway across England. Birdwatchers get genuinely excited here - the mix of oak and ash attracts proper variety. Kids get restless after about 45 minutes unless they're the type who enjoy poking at logs and collecting leaves. There's nothing to do besides walk and observe, which is either the whole point or completely pointless depending on who you ask.

The forest sits well within reach of Wellington Country Park, just under five miles away, so you could combine an afternoon's woodland ramble with their facilities and lake walks. No facilities at the copse itself - bring water and a packed lunch if you want to stay longer. Free access, no facilities, no café. Pure woodland. Go on a weekday morning if you want any chance of hearing nightingales without competing with other visitors.