National Trust - Headley Heath

Headley Heath is a National Trust country park rather than a packaged family attraction, and that’s very much the point. It’s all woodland, heathland, gravel paths and open countryside, with a choice of routes and enough variation to make repeat visits worthwhile. For families, the appeal is simple: space, views and a decent bit of exercise. Reviewers mention shade on sunny days, benches for picnics, a couple of car parks, and trails that suit dogs, bikes and horse riders as well as walkers. Older children should cope well with the inclines, and there’s enough here to keep keen walkers happy without feeling too formal. The drawbacks are the usual National Trust outdoorsy ones: parking costs if you’re not a member, there are no toilets on site, and the paths can be muddy in winter. Food is a bit hit-and-miss too, with an ice cream option in season and a burger van/food truck rather than a proper café. Fine for a ramble; less ideal if you need creature comforts.