Some of the prettiest open spaces in the Cotswolds make the grade in Annunciata Elwes' series on Secret Britain.
These 828 acres of hills above the Stroud Valleys and Severn Vale are adorned with fluttering large blue butterflies, successfully reintroduced after 40 years of extinction in the UK, plus the rare Duke of Burgundy.
A misty day in November at Rodborough Common, Gloucestershire.
More than 100 species of grasses and wildflowers, from short-lived pasqueflowers in spring to summer bee orchids and autumn gentians, make this an internationally important site.
There’s historical significance, too, on Minchinhampton, with mile-long earthworks from the Iron Age Belgic Dobunni tribe, a long barrow named for an 18th-century preacher, Second World War glider-trap remains and a standing stone that can apparently cure smallpox. Though in the case of the latter it’s probably best to rely on your local GP for all your smallpox needs…
See more of Secret Britain
Racton Folly, West Sussex: Flying bricks, faces in windows and a ghost tractor that sneaks up behind you
Our Secret Britain series continues with a look at a crumbling folly in Sussex.
Mynydd Carningli, Pembrokeshire: The ancient volcano in the shape of a reclining woman
The peak of this remote mountain in West Wales is the next spot to make our Secret Britain list.
Balnahard beach, Isle of Colonsay: A magical beauty spot with thousands of years of history
The white sand beach of Balnahard, on the Isle of Colonsay, is as fascinating as it is beautiful.
