Shavinghurst

Shavinghurst is a proper woodland walk tucked away in Sussex countryside, just a few miles north of Chichester. It's the sort of place you stumble across rather than plan for - dense forest with decent footpaths that wind through beech and oak, good for stretching your legs without needing proper hiking boots.

The main appeal here is a straightforward forest ramble. You're looking at a couple of hours maximum if you do the circuit properly, though it's easy enough to just pick your own route through the trees. The canopy is thick enough that even on warm days it stays reasonably cool, which is handy if you've got kids who overheat easily. Visibility into the forest is decent, so there's none of that claustrophobic feeling you get in some woodlands.

Historically minded walkers might find something of interest in the local area - there's plenty of Sussex history nearby - though the forest itself is fairly straightforward. It's not dramatic or particularly famous, which actually works in its favour. You won't be queuing or dodging crowds.

If you're staying at Graffham Camping and Caravanning Club Site just down the road, this is an easy morning walk worth fitting in. The nearest proper town is Chichester, which has plenty to keep you busy if the weather turns. Free to access, naturally, and open year-round, though it's best in spring and autumn when the undergrowth isn't quite so thick. Worth an hour or so if you're in the area.