Cheddar Reservoir

The water here is remarkably still on a calm day - so still you'd think someone had painted it on. Cheddar Reservoir sits just outside the village itself, a proper working water supply that's also become a serious draw for birdwatchers and anyone after a peaceful walk. The reservoir path loops the perimeter, giving you open water views across to the Mendip Hills rising up behind. It's the kind of place where you might spot kingfishers or great crested grebes if you're patient, though frankly most people just come for the walk and the light.

The real appeal is the contrast - claustrophobic Cheddar Gorge is dramatic and touristy, but the reservoir feels genuinely quiet. You get space to breathe here. Walkers will get a solid hour out of the full loop depending on pace, and it's flat enough that families with younger kids won't struggle. The path is well-maintained, nothing arduous. Bird enthusiasts should bring binoculars - early morning is when things happen, spring and autumn are your best windows.

Staying at one of the nearby caravan parks puts you minutes away - Cheddar Caravan and Motorhome Club or Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa are virtually on your doorstep if you're based there. It works brilliantly as an add-on to a Mendip holiday: do the gorge and caves when you need the spectacle, then come here when you need to recover. No crowds, no queues, just water and birds and the odd angler who actually knows what he's doing.