Cowm Reservoir

The water sits high up on the moors above Rossendale, surrounded by rough grassland and gritstone outcrops that feel properly remote even though you're only a few miles from town. Cowm Reservoir is a straightforward kind of place - no fancy visitor centre or refreshment facilities, just a decent walk around the water with views that open up across the valley if the weather's on your side.

It works best for walkers and anyone after some fresh air without needing much infrastructure. The circuit isn't challenging, which means families with older children will manage it fine, though there's not really anything to keep young kids entertained once they've had a look at the water. The moorland setting appeals to hikers who want something quick and accessible from Rossendale itself.

Access appears to be free and it's the sort of place you can do in an hour or so, depending on how you fancy the walk. Come on a clear day - mist rolls in here regularly and rather kills the point of the visit. It's a useful addition to a longer moorland walk rather than a destination in itself.

If you're staying at Dearden Wood or Rossendale Holiday Cottages nearby, this makes a solid morning or late-afternoon outing. It's close enough that you won't spend ages driving, but feels far enough from the settled areas to scratch that wild-weather itch. Not spectacular, but straightforward and honest.