Forest bathing at Basildon Park

Basildon Park is a National Trust house set in 400 acres of historic parkland in the hills above Pangbourne. The park is full of old oak and sweet chestnut trees, some with dead crowns, and lapsed pollards that were once cut back to keep new growth above the reach of grazing animals. Tulip trees, field maples and beeches add colour in autumn, and the estate's waymarked walks include a woodland walk and a boundary walk through ancient woodland.

Four waymarked routes, from a twenty-minute stroll to a two-hour walk, start near the house, so you can choose how far to go. The busy areas are around the house, tea-room and Basil Den play area; the longer routes into the woods are quieter. Autumn colour is strong from late September, with berries and fungi, and in May the parkland turns yellow with buttercups. Paths are uneven and can be muddy, and cattle graze the parkland. Entry is charged for non-members.