Snitterfield Bushes

Ancient woodland sprawls across the countryside just outside Stratford-upon-Avon, offering proper rambling territory away from the tourist crowds. Snitterfield Bushes covers several hundred acres of mixed woodland with well-worn paths threading between mature oak and beech trees.

Dog walkers and serious hikers will find plenty to keep them occupied here. The terrain varies from gentle slopes to steeper climbs, though nothing too challenging for reasonably fit visitors. Spring brings carpets of bluebells that transform the forest floor into something quite spectacular - worth timing your visit for late April or early May.

Families might struggle with pushchairs on some of the rougher tracks, but older children who can manage a proper walk will love exploring the various trails. Allow at least two hours to do the place justice, though you could easily spend half a day here if the weather's decent.

Parking can be a bit hit and miss - there's no formal car park, so you'll need to find roadside spaces near the woodland edges. Free access means it's a bargain compared to some of the more commercialised attractions around Stratford.

If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan sites like Rayford or Stratford Parks, this makes for an excellent morning's adventure before heading into town for Shakespeare and shopping.