The Park, University of Gloucestershire

The Park at the University of Gloucestershire is a proper working nature reserve that actually belongs to the university rather than being a public tourist attraction in the traditional sense. It's based on the university's campus near Cheltenham, and while access isn't entirely straightforward, it's worth ringing ahead to see if you can have a look around.

What you'll find here are managed natural habitats - woodland, grassland, and wetland areas that the university uses for both conservation and teaching. It's the sort of place where botanists and ecology students do their thing, which means the habitats are genuinely looked after rather than just left to their own devices. There are walking paths through the grounds, and depending on the season, you might spot all manner of birds and insects.

This is really one for nature enthusiasts and keen walkers rather than families after a quick outing. If you're camping at one of the nearby sites like Cheltenham Racecourse Caravan Club or Star Glamping - both within a couple of miles - and you fancy a morning ramble through proper woodland without the crowds of a major country park, it's worth investigating. Allow a couple of hours to do it justice.

Check with the university directly before you visit, as opening arrangements can be variable. It's free to access if they let you in, which is a bonus. On a good day, it's a pleasant pocket of genuine countryside right on Cheltenham's doorstep.