Westland's Bank

You'll find yourself in proper woodland the moment you step into Westland's Bank, just outside Cirencester. It's a straightforward forest walk rather than a manicured nature reserve, which means it feels genuinely wild in places. The paths wind through deciduous trees with enough cover to make it pleasant even when the Gloucestershire weather's being temperamental.

This is walker territory, full stop. The terrain's uneven in stretches, roots everywhere, so bring decent boots. You're looking at anything from a gentle stroll to a proper ramble depending on which way you head. Kids will either love it or get bored within twenty minutes - there's no playground equipment or waymarked attractions to keep them busy. Families with older children who actually like being outside will get more from it than those with toddlers in tow.

The forest rewards a bit of exploration. There are clearings where light filters through, spots where you can actually hear yourself think away from the road noise. No admission fee as far as I can tell - it's the sort of place you simply turn up to. Allow two to three hours if you're doing a proper circuit, less if you're just poking about for half an hour.

If you're based at Mayfield Park or the Cirencester caravan site, this makes a solid addition to a park-based holiday. It's near enough for an easy morning out without needing to drive far. Combine it with a walk into Cirencester itself and you've got a decent day sorted. On its own it's pleasant but unpretentious - no Instagram moments, just good old-fashioned woodland.