Rubblepit Plantation

The name alone had me curious - Rubblepit Plantation sounds like something from a children's adventure story, not a proper woodland in Berkshire. But that's exactly what makes it worth the detour from Wantage.

It's a working plantation forest, the sort of place where you'll actually see trees being managed rather than just wandering through manicured parkland. The paths are straightforward enough for families, though the terrain can be muddy depending on recent weather. Bring proper boots. You get a genuine sense of working woodland here - it's not trying to be anything fancy, which is rather the appeal.

Walkers will find it decent for a morning ramble or an afternoon circuit. The younger kids might lose interest after an hour or so unless they're the type who enjoy spotting birds or collecting interesting branches. Frankly, it's best suited to people who actually enjoy being in woods, not those looking for a destination with facilities.

If you're staying at Lorne Hill Farm - the holiday park just down the road - this makes a logical spot to stretch your legs without driving anywhere. Free access, clearly, and no opening hours nonsense. Just show up when it suits you. Summer's the obvious choice, though autumn has its charm if you don't mind the wet.

Rubblepit won't be in any guidebooks as the main event, but that's rather the point. It's the sort of place real locals know about.