Tor Hill Wood

The woodland around Tor Hill sits just south of Wells, and it's the sort of place you stumble into rather than plan for. Ancient mixed forest with proper old oaks, beech, and conifers - the canopy gets dense enough that even on a bright day you're walking in dappled shade. There are informal paths threading through, nothing signposted or manicured, which means it feels genuinely wild despite being within spitting distance of the cathedral city.

It's ideal if you're based at one of the local parks - Cathedral View Glamping or Wells Touring Park are practically on the doorstep - and you want a proper walk without driving somewhere. The terrain is typical Somerset woodland: boggy in places after rain, rooty underfoot, the kind of ground that needs decent boots. Expect to spend 45 minutes to an hour here depending on which way you wander.

Historically minded types will appreciate that this landscape has been worked for centuries - you'll spot the shapes of old coppice management if you know what to look for. It's not a destination on its own, though. This is walker territory rather than a family picnic spot. Kids might find it atmospheric for 20 minutes, then restless. No facilities that I could see, so bring water.

The real value is the mood of it. Properly atmospheric on a grey afternoon, and it knits well with exploring Wells itself - the cathedral, the bishop's palace, the high street - all within easy reach. If you're staying nearby and want to stretch your legs through something green and genuinely old, it's worth the detour.