Hogmoor Inclosure Car Park

The car park at Hogmoor Inclosure isn't the sort of place you'd write home about on its own, but it's the gateway to something rather good. Tucked away near Alton in Hampshire, this is where most people abandon their cars before heading out into the surrounding woodland and heathland - proper walking country with decent trails fanning out in all directions.

What makes it useful is the access it gives you to the wider landscape. The Inclosure itself is a mix of open heathland and conifer plantation, the sort of terrain that works well for families wanting a straightforward two-hour walk without too much faffing about with navigation. Kids won't find it thrilling on its own merits - there's no playground or café - but it's a solid basecamp for getting into nature.

If you're staying at Feather Down Manor Farm or Wigwam Holidays nearby, both within easy reach, you could easily make this a quick morning jaunt or a longer afternoon stomp depending on energy levels and the weather. Spring and autumn are best, when the heath comes alive and you're not battling midges.

Free to use, obviously, and no time limit - turn up, park, walk. The main thing is checking the weather and bringing decent boots. Ground conditions can be boggy after rain, which is either brilliant or annoying depending on your tolerance for mud.