Little Hayling Wood

You'll find yourself surrounded by proper ancient woodland the moment you step into Little Hayling Wood near Petersfield. It's a small forest - nothing vast - but the trees create that lovely canopy effect where the light filters through in these golden shafts on a clear day. The paths are well-maintained and fairly easy going, making it accessible for families with younger kids, though toddlers might struggle with the muddier sections after rain.

Walkers will appreciate the network of trails threading through the wood. You're looking at anything from a quick 20-minute mooch to a couple of hours if you're combining it with other routes in the area. The woodland feels properly quiet - that's the real draw here. No crowds, no gift shops, just trees and birdsong. Bring binoculars if you're into spotting wildlife; the mix of deciduous trees supports decent birdlife.

It works brilliantly as part of a camping weekend. Stay at Woodlands Camping just down the road - it's only 2.7 miles away - and you can slip into the wood for an early walk before breakfast. Hampshire Hills, a proper five-star glamping outfit, sits 5.1 miles south if you want a bit more comfort. The wood itself is free to access and there are no real time constraints, though you'll want decent daylight to explore properly. Spring and autumn are when it's best - fewer midges, better light, and the ground's firmer than in winter.