Combs Reservoir

The walk around Combs Reservoir is one of those Derbyshire outings that doesn't sound thrilling on paper but absolutely delivers once you're there. This modest water body sits on the edge of the Peak District, about four miles from Buxton, and the circuit around it gives you proper moorland views without needing a map or any serious scrambling.

The walk itself takes roughly ninety minutes at a steady pace, following the perimeter with open water on one side and that distinctive gritstone landscape all around. It's the kind of place where you can actually see why people move to the Peaks - wild enough to feel remote, but accessible enough that you won't be cursing your choice halfway through. The reservoir is popular with anglers, so weekday mornings tend to be quieter if you prefer fewer other walkers about.

Families with capable kids will manage this fine; it's not technically demanding, just a bit exposed when the wind picks up. History buffs might be disappointed - there's not much beyond the industrial heritage of the reservoir itself - but for anyone after straightforward moorland scenery combined with a decent walk, it's worth the detour from Buxton. The nearest proper basecamp would be Lime Tree Holiday Park or Buxton Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite, both just under five miles away and highly rated, which makes it a manageable morning out or an afternoon filler during a longer park holiday.

Wear waterproofs. The weather changes fast out here.