Copeland Reservoir

The water sits grey and still between the hills just inland from Larne, ringed by rough moorland that changes colour with the seasons. Copeland Reservoir is the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for - a proper working landscape where the industrial purpose of water storage doesn't diminish the walk one bit.

It's decent walking country, mainly. The circuit takes a couple of hours at an easy pace, with paths that wind round the water's edge and climb enough to give you views without leaving you knackered. You'll spot herons if you're quiet, and on clear days the hills open up nicely. The reservoir itself is fed from the Copeland River, and there's something satisfying about watching how the land drains into it from all directions.

This isn't a manicured attraction with visitor facilities and gift shops. There's no entrance fee because there's barely an entrance - just pull in, park sensibly, and go. Bring proper boots if it's been wet; the ground gets boggy in places. Families with older kids who can handle a proper walk will get more from it than toddlers, though the flatter sections near the water work fine for most ages.

Close enough to Larne for a morning or afternoon outing, it makes a natural pairing with Down to Earth Wild Camping if you're staying in the area. The reservoir works best in spring and autumn when the light's better and the moorland colour deepens. Summer can feel a bit exposed and windswept.