Godwin's Copse

Walk far enough into Godwin's Copse and you'll forget Alresford exists. This isn't some manicured country estate - it's proper woodland, the kind where you can actually lose yourself for an afternoon without hitting a visitor centre or a gift shop.

The trees are decent-sized and the paths wind through in ways that feel almost accidental, as though someone just left the forest to its own devices years ago. Walkers get genuine value here. There's nothing too strenuous, but the ground can be muddy depending on when you visit, so come prepared. You're looking at a solid couple of hours if you want to do it properly rather than just cutting through.

Families with younger kids might find it a bit samey after the first half-hour - there's no obvious focal point, no waterfall or clearing or ancient monument to aim for. That said, if your lot enjoys spotting birds or hunting for woodland bugs, they'll be occupied long enough. The paths are well-defined enough that you won't spend the whole time worrying about getting lost.

It's free and open to the public, which is refreshing. If you're staying at Hampshire Hills a few miles away in Alresford, this makes an easy morning or afternoon excursion without the faffing about of getting in the car. Real woodland walking without the crowds you'd get at bigger country estates. Just bring decent shoes and maybe a map app on your phone.