Scutty Benches Copse

Scutty Benches Copse is a modest woodland patch just outside Taunton that makes for a straightforward forest walk without the crowds you'd find elsewhere. The main appeal here is simplicity - you get trees, a bit of shade, and enough space to stretch your legs for an hour or so. There's nothing dramatic about it. No waterfall, no rare birds, just proper woodland doing what woodland does.

It's the sort of place that works well if you're staying at one of the nearby parks - 5 Acres on the Somerset Levels is only 3.3 miles away, making it an easy detour for families who want a break from site facilities. Couples after a quiet walk will find it perfectly adequate. The woodland itself is unremarkable enough that you won't feel short-changed if you only give it 45 minutes rather than half a day.

Access and facilities are largely unknown, which tells you something about the place - it's not heavily promoted or managed as a tourist destination. This is neither good nor bad, just honest. Bring a map or a phone with offline directions. There's no visitor centre or cafe, so come prepared. The best time is probably late spring or early autumn when it's not swampy underfoot and the flies aren't unbearable.

If you're based at Ashe Farm Caravan and Camping Site or Dimpsey Shepherd's Hut Glamping for a few days, Scutty Benches Copse makes a decent afternoon filler between other activities. Don't expect magic. Expect a decent walk near Taunton that won't eat up your petrol money.