Withybed Copse

A proper woodland walk through old-growth forest with the kind of thick canopy that makes you forget the outside world exists. Withybed Copse is small enough to do in an hour, but the sort of place where you'll want to linger if the light's coming through the trees right. The paths are reasonably maintained, though it can get muddy after rain - wellies aren't a bad shout.

This works best for anyone who actually enjoys being among trees rather than rushing through them. Walkers will appreciate the quiet and the lack of crowds. Families with younger kids might find it a touch underwhelming unless they're into spotting wildlife or making dens, but there's something to be said for a simple woodland wander when you're basing yourself at Great Farm up the road.

Practically speaking, there's no visitor centre or cafe, so bring what you need. Best visited in spring or autumn when the woodland floor's interesting and the canopy's not too dense. Swindon's the nearest proper town if you need supplies, though you're not far from it anyway.

The real charm is that it's unforced - no interpretation boards telling you what trees you're looking at, no entrance fee, just trees and footpaths. Whether that appeals depends entirely on what you're after from a forest walk. If you want drama or big vistas, look elsewhere. If you want to breathe properly for an hour, this does the job.