Southampton Common

Three hundred and sixty acres of proper common land right on Southampton's doorstep - that's what you get here, and it's genuinely one of the better urban green spaces in the south. Flat paths wind through woodland and open grassland, with the occasional pond throwing in some wildlife interest. You'll spot herons, the odd muntjac deer if you're lucky, and come spring the bluebells are decent without being spectacular.

It's ideal for families who want to walk without climbing hills. Locals come here to jog, walk dogs, or just sit on a bench and stare at trees - and there's no shame in that. The paths are well-maintained and pushchair-friendly on the main routes, though some of the side trails get a bit boggy depending on the season. History types might find the old fortifications vaguely interesting, remnants from when Southampton took defence seriously.

The whole thing works brilliantly as a base activity for a park holiday. Sunnydale Farm is barely four miles away and sits right between here and the New Forest, so you could combine an easy Common walk with proper woodland exploration elsewhere. Mercury Holiday Park and Ashurst Campsite are close enough that you won't waste petrol getting there. Allow two to three hours for a decent potter about - it's not massive, and you'll have walked most of it by mid-afternoon.

Free access, no gates, open whenever. Go on a weekday morning if you want peace. Weekends get busy with families and dog walkers, which is fine if you're in a sociable mood.