Grimstone's Furze

Walk into Grimstone's Furze and you're immediately surrounded by dense woodland that feels properly removed from Wingrave and the surrounding farmland. It's the kind of place where the canopy closes overhead and you lose track of time - in the best way. The forest is thick with native trees and that characteristic furze scrub that gives the place its name, which turns brilliant yellow when it flowers in spring.

This works best for people who like a proper woodland walk without needing much interpretation or facilities. There's no visitor centre or café here - it's genuine forest, the sort where you navigate by instinct and the occasional path. Families with older kids and anyone after some peace and quiet will get the most from it. Young children might tire of it fairly quickly unless they're the type to hunt for sticks and creatures in the undergrowth.

The walk from Wingrave takes about twenty minutes, so it's easily combined with a stay at Wingbury Farm Glamping just up the road. Allow an hour or so for a decent wander depending on how many trails you fancy exploring. Go in spring for the furze flowers or autumn when the light filters through differently. Winter's dramatic too if you don't mind mud.

It's free to access and there's nothing to book - just turn up. The appeal is straightforward: genuine woodland without the managed park experience. Good for clearing your head, less good if you need amenities.