Wicks Wood

You'll find Wicks Wood just outside Wallingford, a proper woodland walk that rewards you with decent views across the Oxfordshire countryside. It's a straightforward forest - nothing fancy - but the paths are well-trodden and easy enough for most abilities. The real draw is how peaceful it gets once you're in among the trees, especially on weekday mornings when you've got the place largely to yourself.

The walk takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on which route you take, and there's enough woodland to explore without it feeling overwhelming. It's the kind of place where you can let kids run about without worrying they'll get properly lost, though you'll want to keep an eye on them near any steeper bits. Dog walkers absolutely love it here - the paths are dog-friendly and there's usually space to let them off lead if you're sensible about it.

It's free to visit, which is always a bonus. No visitor centre or facilities that I could find, so come prepared with water and perhaps a packed lunch if you're making a proper half-day of it. Spring and autumn are genuinely lovely times to visit when the light filters through differently.

If you're staying at Ridgeway View Campsite or Bridge Villa Camping nearby, this makes an easy morning outing before heading elsewhere. It's not a destination in itself - more a solid addition to a Wallingford weekend rather than a reason to plan your trip around.