Boundary Pond

Water that's gone a bit murky after heavy rain, but on a clear day Boundary Pond near Crawley is a decent spot for a quiet walk. The pond itself isn't vast - you can loop it in twenty minutes if you're moving - but there's something oddly peaceful about it being so unpretentious. No visitor centre, no café, no crowds. Just a modest bit of water with reeds and the occasional fisherman.

It works best as part of a larger walk through the surrounding woods rather than a destination in itself. Families with young kids will get restless after half an hour, if I'm honest. Birdwatchers and serious walkers will find it worthwhile though - the ponds here attract proper variety if you know what to look for, and the footpaths are well-maintained enough.

Access appears to be free, though there's limited parking and nowhere obvious to grab supplies. Come early on weekends to avoid the school-run crews. The spot sits perfectly between Sunset Tree Camping and Raylands Country Park if you're doing a camping holiday in Sussex - both are close enough for an evening wander without hauling the kids far from the tent.

Worth the detour if you're in the area and after something green and quiet. Don't go out of your way for it though.