Hagbourne Copse Nature Reserve

A small woodland reserve just outside Swindon that's genuinely worth a detour if you're after a proper walk away from the town. Hagbourne Copse is the sort of place where you notice things - ancient trees, woodland birds, the way light filters through in spring when the bluebells are out. It's not vast, so you won't spend hours here, but that's rather the point. An hour or so of wandering the paths and you'll have cleared your head entirely.

The reserve works brilliantly as part of a wider day out. If you're staying at Park Farm Campsite nearby, this is the kind of spot that justifies pitching up for a few nights in the area. It's proper woodland walking without needing to drive miles, and the paths are manageable for families with kids old enough to enjoy a gentle ramble without getting fractious.

Bring binoculars if you're into birds - local volunteers have recorded everything from nuthatches to lesser spotted woodpeckers here. The reserve changes completely through the seasons: winter feels austere and peaceful, spring brings the aforementioned bluebells, summer's thick with insects and birdsong, and autumn is all crunching leaves underfoot. Access appears to be free and unrestricted, though it pays to check locally in Swindon before you go, as reserve opening times aren't always obvious online. The nearest car park isn't right at the entrance, so factor in a short walk from wherever you've left the car. Worth the effort.