Colliford Lake

The moment you round the bend and Colliford Lake comes into view, you get why people drive out here from Bodmin. It's a proper reservoir - man-made, yes, but the kind that's been around long enough to feel like it belongs in the Cornish landscape. The water's ringed by woodland and moorland, which makes for decent walking routes if you're after some legwork, or a peaceful spot to sit and watch if you're not.

This is walker territory, mainly. The lake circuit is straightforward enough - take it at your own pace, bring a picnic, watch the water birds. It's the sort of place that works brilliantly if you're staying at one of the nearby glamping sites like Ekopod or Trewithen Farm and want a half-day out without faffing about. Kids will manage it fine for a couple of hours; the path is easy underfoot and there's something about water that keeps them entertained.

Bringing a fishing rod? This place is known for trout fishing, and that's a draw for anglers who take it seriously. If that's not your thing, just treat it as a walking spot. Free to access - there's nowhere you're paying a toll to get in - though you might find fishing requires a permit if you're planning to cast a line. Best visited when the weather's halfway decent; grey and drizzly it's functional rather than lovely. Allow a couple of hours for a gentle circuit, longer if you're dawdling or exploring the side paths.