Elizabeth Crichton

The River Nith cuts through this nature reserve like it's got somewhere urgent to be, and frankly, that's half the appeal. Elizabeth Crichton, just outside Dumfries, is a proper walk rather than a quick stop-off - the riverside paths wind through woodland and open grassland where you'll spot roe deer if you're quiet enough, plus kingfishers and herons if the light's right. It's the kind of place that rewards proper boots and a bit of patience.

The reserve works best for walkers and birdwatchers rather than families with small children - there's nothing in the way of facilities or playgrounds, and you need a decent level of fitness for some of the terrain. Allow a couple of hours minimum if you're doing a proper loop. The woodland sections are lovely in spring when the bluebells come through, though autumn's when the light really does something special along the water.

It slots in nicely with a caravan holiday based at any of the nearby sites - Landis Farm CL and Criffel View are both just four and a half miles away and highly rated. You're also close enough to Caerlaverock Castle Corner Camp Site if you want to combine this with visits to the castle itself. The reserve is free to access, which makes it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary when you need a proper stretch of the legs without paying for it.