Shipton's Copse

Thick canopy overhead blocks most of the light filtering down to the woodland floor at this small copse just outside Highbridge. Shipton's Copse feels properly wild - the sort of place where kids can build dens and adults can pretend they're miles from civilisation, even though you're barely ten minutes from the nearest Tesco. The paths aren't marked or maintained, which means proper walking boots are sensible if the ground's been wet.

Families staying at nearby holiday parks like Haven Burnham-on-Sea or Sandy Glade will find this a decent escape from the seaside bustle. It's not massive - you can walk the perimeter in twenty minutes - but there's enough bramble and undergrowth to keep young explorers occupied for an hour or two. Dog walkers seem to know about it, judging by the well-worn tracks through the trees.

The copse works best as a quick diversion rather than a destination. Perfect for burning off energy between beach trips or when the weather turns and you need somewhere the kids can run about without destroying the caravan. Just don't expect spectacular views or Instagram moments - this is proper Somerset woodland, muddy boots and all.