James Copse

Walk into James Copse and you're suddenly surrounded by tall beech and oak, the kind of woodland that makes you forget Waterlooville is just down the road. It's a proper forest walk, not a manicured country estate - paths wind through dense trees, light filters through in patches, and there's that satisfying crunch of leaf litter underfoot.

This is straightforward woodland rambling. You can meander for an hour or two depending on which routes you fancy, and the whole place has that quiet, undisturbed feel. Families with older children will get more from it than toddlers - there's not much to stop and look at besides trees, but if your kids enjoy exploring and spotting wildlife, they'll be occupied. Serious walkers might find it a touch limited for a full day, though it pairs well enough with other spots nearby.

Access appears to be free, though there's little official information online - your best bet is turning up and seeing what's what. There's no defined car park that I'm aware of, which suggests it's a local spot rather than a manicured attraction. Bring proper footwear because it can get muddy even days after rain.

If you're staying at Wallops Wood glamping or one of the caravan sites nearby - ScottsHaven, The Old Dairy Farm, or Rookesbury Park - this makes a decent morning outing to stretch the legs. It's not a destination in itself, but it's the kind of woodland that justifies a quiet walk when you're based in the area.