Willoughby Cleeve

The moment you step into Willoughby Cleeve, the Somerset coast seems to vanish behind you. This is proper woodland - tall beech and oak pressing in from both sides, the sort of forest that makes you forget you're near Holford and the holiday parks dotted along the coast. The main draw is the network of walking trails that wind through the steep-sided cleeve, with a small stream running through the valley floor creating these lovely damp pockets where ferns flourish.

It's ideal for anyone who wants fresh air without the crowds of more famous spots. Families with primary-school kids will find the terrain manageable, though the paths do get boggy after rain - proper walking boots recommended. Expect to spend two to three hours here without rushing, taking time to spot wildlife in the quieter sections. The canopy's thick enough that even on scorching days it stays relatively cool, which matters more than you'd think in summer.

Whatever the admission situation - and you'll want to check locally from Holford - this slots perfectly into a forest-focused holiday. If you're based at Moorhouse Campsite nearby, this is walking distance. The woodland won't wow anyone expecting dramatic views or ruins, but if you're after genuine peace with decent paths underfoot, it delivers. Less manicured than some National Trust properties, which is precisely what makes it worth the trip.