Hembury Wood

The walk into Hembury Wood from Wells takes you through proper Somerset countryside - rolling fields give way to a dense canopy of oak and beech that's genuinely impressive once you're in it. It's not a manicured forest trail with signposts every fifty metres; this feels like actual woodland where you might lose the path for a moment and have to look around to find your bearings again. The ground is soft underfoot, especially after rain, and in spring the bluebells are worth timing a visit for.

This is walker territory, no question. Families with young children might find it a bit much unless they're the hardy type - there are slopes, tree roots, and stretches where you need to concentrate on where you're putting your feet. But for anyone who likes a proper woodland ramble within striking distance of Wells, it delivers. You're looking at a couple of hours minimum to do it justice, longer if you want to explore the quieter edges.

Free to access and open year-round, which is the way it should be. If you're camping at Cathedral View Glamping or Old Oaks just outside Wells, Hembury Wood makes an excellent morning's outing before heading into town to see the cathedral itself. The woodland offers genuine peace - you won't find tourist crowds or facilities here, just trees and the sound of whatever wildlife calls this place home. Come prepared with decent boots and a map.