Magpies

The woodland at Magpies, near Watlington, is one of those places that rewards a proper wander rather than a quick tick-off. You're looking at dense beech and mixed broadleaf forest - the sort of landscape that feels properly old, with plenty of shade even in summer and a real sense of being away from things. The paths wind through fairly gently, making it accessible without being dull.

It's genuinely good for families who want to let kids burn energy without worrying about them straying far. Walkers will find enough ground to cover for a solid hour or two, and the tree cover is excellent when the weather turns warm. History types might appreciate the old woodland management patterns you can still spot in the structure of the trees.

I'd give it a morning - two hours maximum - rather than banking your whole day on it. The appeal is the peace and the green, not any particular feature or destination within the wood. That said, it slots nicely into a broader ramble around the Watlington area, and if you're staying at Cholsey Grange CL nearby, it's a straightforward drive. The admission situation and exact opening hours aren't clearly signposted, so ring ahead or check locally before you go. Worth including in a Buckinghamshire walking itinerary, but don't travel across the county specifically for this one alone.