Holway Woods Nature Reserve

The woodland paths through Holway Woods feel properly rewarding after you've wound through the outskirts of Yeovil. This is genuine Dorset woodland - dense in places, open enough in others that you actually feel like you're getting somewhere rather than just trudging in circles. The reserve is managed for wildlife, which means you'll spot proper habitats if you know what to look for: patches of coppiced woodland, scrubland where birds nest, the usual suspects of bramble and hawthorn.

Walkers will get the most from it, especially those with binoculars and a bird book. If you're after a proper ramble rather than a quick stroll, you've got enough ground here to spend a solid hour or two without repeating yourself. The paths are reasonably clear, though muddy stretches are inevitable in winter. Kids will enjoy it for maybe 45 minutes before asking if they can head back - unless you make it into a treasure hunt situation.

Based near Yeovil, it's ideal if you're camping at Long Hazel Park or glamping at Starlight Glamping. Neither site is far away, making this an easy morning or afternoon detour before or after sitting by the caravan. The reserve itself appears to be free access, though there's no visitor centre or facilities that I found, so come prepared. Best in spring when the birds are territorial and noisy, or autumn when the light gets that proper golden quality. It's a solid addition to a park holiday in the area, not a destination in itself.