Elton Reservoir

The water sits perfectly still on most mornings, reflecting the moorland hills around Bury like a mirror someone's just polished. Elton Reservoir is a proper working water body, not some manicured leisure spot, and that's rather the appeal. You get decent walking routes around the perimeter - nothing too strenuous, but enough to work your legs without feeling you've tackled Pendle Hill.

The real draw is the birdwatching. Bring binoculars and a decent field guide because the reservoir attracts all sorts depending on the season. Grebes, cormorants, and if you're lucky, the odd osprey passing through. Photographers do well here too, especially when light's hitting the water early on. That said, facilities are minimal - there's car parking and a handful of walking paths, but no café or visitor centre. Come prepared.

It's the sort of place that rewards a couple of hours rather than a full day, unless you're seriously into ornithology. Families with restless toddlers might find it a touch dull after half an hour. But if your kids are old enough to spot birds and your idea of a morning doesn't involve a gift shop, this works well.

The nearby Dearden Wood holiday park makes a sensible base if you're exploring the area - Elton sits just under seven miles away, manageable for a morning outing between other Lancashire attractions. Early morning or late afternoon visit beats midday when it gets a bit exposed and windy.