Penny Grove

A small woodland tucked away near Stroud that's genuinely lovely for a proper forest walk without the crowds you'd get at somewhere more famous. Penny Grove is the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think - it's just trees, paths, and the occasional dog walker. The forest canopy is thick enough to feel properly shaded even in summer, which makes it great for cooling off on hot days.

It's worth combining with a Stroud base if you're after woodland walks rather than manicured park visits. The trees give decent shelter, and there's enough space to wander for an hour or so without feeling like you've done laps. Families with younger kids might find it a bit limited if the weather turns - there's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of - but for those wanting a straightforward forest amble, it's well worth the trip.

If you're staying at Mayfield Park nearby, this makes an easy morning outing before heading into Stroud proper. It's the sort of place you go to clear your head rather than tick off a box. No entrance fee that I can find, no fixed hours - just turn up and walk. Bring proper shoes though; the ground can get boggy in winter, and the paths aren't formal tarmac affairs.