Byerhope Reservoir

The water here is surprisingly still on a calm day - proper mirrored surface that picks up every cloud. Byerhope Reservoir sits in the rolling hills south of Bishop Auckland, and it's the kind of place locals know but visitors often miss entirely. You get the full circuit walk around the perimeter, which takes the best part of an hour and gives you decent views across the water toward the surrounding moorland. Nothing flashy, but there's a quiet appeal to it that beats fighting crowds at more famous spots.

The main draw is the walk itself rather than facilities - there's no café or visitor centre, so come prepared. Birdwatchers swear by it, particularly in winter when you might spot overwintering waterfowl. Dog owners will find it absolutely cracking: the path is well-trodden and dogs clearly aren't a problem here. It's free to visit and there's a small car park at the access point, though it fills quickly on weekends.

Kids will manage the walk if they're decent walkers - nothing technical, just steady - but it's not a thrills destination. If you're based at Westgate Caravan & Camping Site five miles away, it makes an easy half-day outing to break up the holiday. The walk is best done in dry weather; when it's wet, the path gets boggy in patches and you'll regret not wearing proper boots. Come in spring or early summer for birdlife, or autumn if you want fewer people and clearer light.