Cliburn Moss Nature Reserve

The bog at Cliburn Moss is one of those places that stops you in your tracks - if you're the type who finds a blanket of sphagnum moss and rare sundews genuinely exciting. It's a proper nature reserve just outside Penrith, and unlike some reserves stuffed with interpretation boards and gift shops, this one lets the landscape do the talking.

You're looking at lowland peatland, which is rarer than hen's teeth in England these days. The boardwalk keeps your feet from turning into bog - essential, as the ground is genuinely waterlogged - and it's flat enough that you won't curse yourself halfway round. Birdwatchers come here for the redshank and curlew. Botanists lose their minds over the insectivorous plants lurking in the wet bits. Casual walkers might find it a bit limited if they're after something with actual views, but if you like sitting still with binoculars, it's worth an hour of your time.

It's free, and there's no obvious entrance fee, though facilities are minimal - bring water and good boots. Spring and early summer are best, when things are flowering and the birds are noisier. Winter's bleak and rather muddy.

If you're based at Crossfells Campsite or Howdy Glamping - both just a few miles away - this makes an easy morning detour before heading to bigger attractions. On its own, though, it's specialist territory. Go if moss matters to you.