The Mead, dog walking field

A wide open field just outside Chippenham where dogs can properly stretch their legs without the faffing about of leads. The Mead is exactly what it says on the tin - grassland, trees dotted about, a few paths worn into the ground by countless paws. Nothing fancy, no facilities that I could spot, but that's rather the point.

Dogs absolutely love it here. Space to run, things to sniff, the occasional puddle to splash through. If your spaniel has been cooped up in a caravan all morning, this is the release valve you need. Most visits run to about forty minutes before they've burnt off the excess energy and you can wrestle them back into the car.

The field gets muddy in winter - proper mud, the sort that requires a boot scraper - so go in drier months if you value your upholstery. Summer is lovely for it, though you'll find it busier with families using it as a free alternative to the paid dog parks.

If you're staying at Burton Hill Caravan & Camping Park, you're barely six miles away, which makes it a useful morning outing before heading into Chippenham for lunch. Don't expect dramatic views or Instagram moments. You're here for one reason: to tire out your dog so it sleeps through dinner. On that count, The Mead delivers.