Chawton Park Wood

The woodland around Chawton is proper Hampshire - all towering beeches and dappled light filtering through layers of green. Chawton Park Wood itself is manageable without being dull, the sort of place where you can wander for an hour or three depending on mood and leg power. The forest floor is soft underfoot, and the paths wind through without feeling overly manicured. It's close enough to Alton that you won't spend half your morning driving there, which counts for something.

Walkers will get the most from this. It's not a destination that demands your entire day, but it's exactly the kind of spot you slip into between other things - a morning stroll before heading into town for lunch, or a late afternoon stretch when the light goes golden. Families with younger children might find it a bit samey after the first twenty minutes unless they're the type to stop and inspect every beetle. Older kids and proper countryside types will find it genuinely pleasant.

Access appears to be free and there's no obvious gate stopping you entering, though details about parking or specific entry points aren't widely advertised. Go early or late afternoon to avoid the school run crowd.

If you're staying at Wigwam Holidays just up the road, Chawton Park Wood is ideal for stretching your legs without leaving the immediate area. It slots perfectly between the glamping sites and Alton's high street, giving you an easy morning walk before heading out properly for the day.