Hungerberry Copse

Ancient woodland spills down the hillside just outside Shanklin, creating one of the Isle of Wight's quieter forest walks. Hungerberry Copse is proper old-growth English woodland - oak, ash and beech trees that have been here for centuries, with a dense understory that stays cool even on the hottest summer days.

Walking here feels like stepping back in time. The paths wind through dappled light and shade, past moss-covered fallen logs and patches of wild garlic in spring. It's not a manicured experience - expect muddy boots and the occasional bramble catching your sleeve. That's rather the point.

Families with older children who don't mind a bit of rough terrain will love the sense of adventure. Younger ones might find it heavy going, though there's plenty of scope for den-building and nature spotting. Dog walkers have claimed this place as their own, and rightly so.

The copse connects to longer footpath networks if you're after a proper hike, or you can simply potter about for an hour or so. No facilities here - bring water and wear decent shoes.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Lower Hyde or Appuldurcombe Gardens? This makes a lovely contrast to beach days, especially when the weather turns changeable. It's the sort of place that reminds you why the island's interior deserves as much attention as its famous coastline.