Carlton Hill Recreation Ground

Carlton Hill Recreation Ground sits just outside Nottingham and does exactly what it says on the tin - a proper local nature reserve that locals actually use rather than one of those over-managed spots that feel sterile. The grassland and woodland here attract birds and small mammals, and there are decent walking trails winding through the site that take between 20 minutes and an hour depending on how thorough you want to be.

It's the sort of place that works brilliantly if you're staying at Peacock Lake Glamping or Gunthorpe Camping nearby and want a morning walk without driving anywhere. Families with young kids will find enough going on - spotting butterflies, exploring the paths - but it won't blow their minds if they're expecting a play area or visitor centre. Birdwatchers and keen walkers get far more out of it, truth be told.

The ground is free to access and there's no faffing about with opening times or booking. Best visited in spring and early summer when the birds are nesting and the wildflowers are up. Autumn's decent too if you want to see migrating species. Winter can feel a bit bleak, though it's quieter if you prefer that.

Don't expect facilities beyond a car park. It's a genuine community space rather than a tourist destination, which is actually refreshing. Combined with either of the nearby glamping or camping sites, it makes for a low-key nature break near Nottingham without the crowds you'd get at bigger attractions.