Trowden Wood

The woodland around Trowden, just outside Taunton, is proper Somerset - all twisted oaks and damp earth, the kind of place where you'll hear more birdsong than voices even on a decent weekend. It's not a manicured country park with visitor centres and ice cream vans; this is working forest where locals walk dogs and families kill a wet afternoon without fuss.

You get woodland paths that meander through good-sized trees, plenty of shade, and enough space to actually breathe. The ground can be boggy after rain - wellies aren't negotiable in winter - but that's half the charm. Kids will find fallen logs to balance on and enough undergrowth to make them feel like they're on an expedition rather than a scheduled walk. Most people spend an hour to ninety minutes here depending on energy levels and how many times little ones insist on turning back.

It's free to access and there's no faffing about with car parks or entrance fees. No facilities either, so bring what you need. The location works well if you're based at Warren Bay or Hoburne Blue Anchor just down the road - close enough for a quick morning ramble before heading to the beach. Even Butlins at Minehead is only twenty minutes away, so it's a decent alternative if the kids are getting cooped up.

Towne Wood won't blow your mind. But if you want actual woodland without the National Trust price tag or the crowds, it does the job. Go when it's not raining if possible.