Chill Wood

The woodland floor here is thick with leaf litter and the kind of quiet that makes you actually notice birdsong. Chill Wood sits just outside Wotton-under-Edge and is exactly the sort of place you wander into without expecting much, then find yourself lingering far longer than planned.

It's a proper forest walk rather than a manicured nature trail - the paths wind through mixed woodland with beech and oak doing most of the heavy lifting overhead. The canopy is dense enough that even on drizzly Gloucestershire days, you stay reasonably dry. There's something about walking here that feels less trodden than the obvious spots; you won't be queuing for photos.

This suits walkers who actually want to walk. Families with restless toddlers might find it a bit samey after thirty minutes, though older kids hunting for woodland creatures will be content. The ground can be muddy in winter - come prepared or don't bother.

There's no entry fee that I'm aware of, and no facilities to speak of, so bring water if you're planning a proper outing. Allow two hours minimum if you want to actually explore rather than just tick it off. Spring and autumn are your best bets - the light filters differently, and you're less likely to be swatting insects.

If you're staying at Wixoldbury Farm Glamping nearby, this is an excellent morning walk before heading back for coffee. Close enough to reach without faffing about, but substantial enough to feel like you've properly exercised.