Linkenholt Hanging

The woodland at Linkenholt hangs rather dramatically from the chalk ridge north of Newbury, which is why locals call it that - it genuinely does look as though the trees might slide off into the valley below. You'll find yourself walking through beech and oak on paths that twist between high banks, the sort of proper old-growth forest that feels like it's been here since the Romans packed up and left.

It's a walker's spot, no getting around it. The paths are well-trodden and the gradients aren't punishing, but you're not coming here for a casual stroll - there's real woodland atmosphere to soak up, and the views back across the Test Valley when you emerge are genuinely worth the effort. Budget an hour to ninety minutes depending on how much you dawdle.

History types might find the Iron Age fort remains interesting if they know what they're looking at, though signage is minimal. Kids will either love the scramble through the trees or get bored when they realise there's no playground. Honestly, it depends whether yours are the type to notice a fallen log makes a decent bridge.

Linkenholt works well if you're base camping at Hollington Park Glamping nearby - close enough for a proper walk but far enough away that you're not tripping over other visitors. The woodland's free to access, and there's parking at the nearby lay-by. Go on a weekday morning if you can; weekends bring the proper hiking brigade.