Hermits Cave Plantation

You'll need to do a bit of detective work to find Hermits Cave Plantation - it's not exactly signposted like a theme park - but that's rather the point. This woodland sits near Stroud in Wiltshire, one of those pockets of forest that feels genuinely removed from the world despite being only a handful of miles from civilisation.

The plantation itself is atmospheric in the way only old woodland can be. You're walking through decent-sized trees, the kind that actually make you feel small, with paths that wind through undergrowth and clearings. The "Hermits Cave" element gives it a bit of folklore intrigue, though don't expect a dramatic cavern - it's more about the sense of exploration and discovery as you move through the trees.

This works best for walkers and anyone after a proper bit of forest time rather than a structured attraction. Families with older kids will enjoy it; younger ones might find it a touch underwhelming if they're after something more interactive. It's the sort of place you'd spend a couple of hours in, not half a day.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Malmesbury Glamping at Whychurch Farm is excellent and only 5.4 miles away, or Burton Hill Caravan & Camping Park just beyond that - this makes a lovely half-morning or afternoon walk. The woodland adds a bit of variety to what can otherwise be a fairly gentle corner of Wiltshire. Go when it's dry; muddy forest floors aren't anyone's idea of fun.