Little Battens Park

A modest nature reserve just outside Chippenham that punches above its weight if you know what you're looking for. Little Battens Park is the sort of place locals actually use rather than tourists queuing up for Instagram shots - which is precisely why it's worth a morning visit if you're camping nearby.

The reserve itself is a patchwork of woodland, scrub, and grassland that's been left to do its own thing. You'll find paths winding through decent bird habitat, and if you're patient, warblers and woodpeckers aren't unusual sightings. The walking is easy rather than demanding - expect to potter about for an hour without breaking much of a sweat.

It's best suited to keen birdwatchers and families after a low-key ramble between other activities. Young kids might get restless if you're standing about with binoculars for too long, but it's fine for a quick stomp around. Spring and early summer bring the most action in terms of wildlife, so time your visit accordingly.

Staying at Roe Deer Fields or The Moors puts you within spitting distance - both are solid campsite options if you want to base yourself properly in the area. The Moors gets strong reviews and sits just 1.9 miles away. From there, Little Battens works well as a quieter morning before heading to bigger attractions across Wiltshire. It's not a destination in itself, but as part of a broader holiday? It slots in nicely.