Drift Reservoir

The water here is genuinely still - dark and reflective on a calm day, bracketed by moorland that rolls back toward the spine of Cornwall. Drift Reservoir sits inland from Penzance, a working water supply that doesn't feel commercialised or fussed over, which is precisely why it works.

It's a walker's spot more than anything else. The reservoir loop takes a couple of hours at a reasonable pace, and the path is decent underfoot though muddy patches appear after rain. The surrounding moorland gives you proper views across to the coast on clear days, and the whole thing has a quiet, slightly remote feel that catches people off guard this close to Penzance.

Families with younger kids might find it a bit exposed and exposed-feeling - there's not much shade, and frankly it can be windy. Older children and keen walkers will get far more from it. Bring layers. The water itself is off-limits for swimming, obviously, but that's not really what you're here for anyway.

Timing-wise, allow two to three hours for the walk and a proper look around. There's no charge that I'm aware of, and no facilities to speak of, so come prepared.

If you're based at Roselands or Lands End Camping just down the road, this makes a solid half-day excursion when the coastal weather turns sketchy. It's the kind of place that rewards going on a good day - nothing magical happens in the rain.