Stockhill, Forestry Commision Parking.

The Forestry Commission car park at Stockhill is your entry point to some proper woodland walking just outside Wells. There's no faffing about here - you pull in, lace up your boots, and you're straight into the trees. The forest itself is managed woodland, all Sitka spruce and Douglas fir mostly, which means it's dense and atmospheric but doesn't have quite the wild character of ancient forest.

Walkers will get the most from this spot. The trails wind through the plantation with decent signposting, and the paths themselves are well-maintained - good for families with older kids or anyone after a straightforward couple of hours in the woods. The terrain's gently rolling rather than punishing, which makes it accessible without being dull. It's the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think, which counts for something when you've just driven out of Wells.

Give yourself at least ninety minutes to do it justice, longer if you want to properly explore the network of tracks. The parking is free - that's the real win here - and there's no entrance fee to speak of. Early morning visits work best if you want solitude and a chance of spotting roe deer.

If you're based at one of the nearby sites like Cheddar Camping just 1.6 miles away or Wells Touring Park, Stockhill makes an easy morning or afternoon outing. It's not dramatic like the gorge itself, but it's a solid addition to a week's walking itinerary in the area, especially if the weather turns and you need tree cover.