Corpse Copse

The name alone stops you dead - Corpse Copse is exactly the sort of Berkshire woodland that makes you wonder what happened here centuries ago. In reality, it's a small, dense forest near Hungerford that doesn't announce itself with visitor centres or clear trails, but that's rather the point. You get proper woodland walking here: tangled undergrowth, fallen logs, birdsong, and the kind of quiet that reminds you why people escape to forests in the first place.

It's walkers' territory, honestly. The paths aren't manicured, and you'll need a decent sense of direction or a map app. Children might find it atmospheric for twenty minutes before asking if there's anything to actually do. History buffs will be disappointed by the lack of plaques or backstory - the macabre name is more folklore than fact, though locals clearly enjoy the mystery.

Give it two hours maximum if you're thorough. There's no admission fee and no facilities, so come prepared with water and sensible boots. Autumn and winter are best - spring can be boggy, summer crowds the understory with greenery and midges.

If you're based at Lorne Hill Farm just down the road, Corpse Copse makes a decent morning ramble before heading elsewhere in the area. It's the sort of place that works well paired with a longer day out rather than a destination in itself. Bit rough round the edges, but that's the appeal.