Sandford Park

The River Chelt winds through Sandford Park just outside Cheltenham, and it's the sort of place you stumble across while walking rather than plan for hours. This nature reserve is genuine countryside within spitting distance of the town - proper green space where you can actually hear yourself think. The park itself follows the river valley, with paths that take you past native trees and open grassland where locals walk dogs and couples sit on benches watching the water. It's free, naturally, and you can spend anywhere from forty minutes to two hours depending on how much you fancy exploring.

Walkers get the most from it. The terrain is gentle enough for families with younger kids, though it's not a theme park so don't expect them to stay entertained for a full afternoon. Birdwatchers occasionally find something worth noting, and the seasonal changes mean spring and autumn are particularly worth timing your visit around. Winter can be muddy underfoot, so come prepared.

It works well as a break from caravan life if you're based at Cheltenham Racecourse or Coxhorne Glamping nearby. You're looking at under two miles from either spot, so it's easy to slip away for an hour or so. The reserve doesn't require booking or payment, which is refreshing - just turn up and walk. There's a car park, though it fills quickly on weekends. Best visited on a quietish weekday morning when you might actually spot some wildlife and have the paths to yourself.