Empingham Reservoir.

The water sprawls across the landscape just outside Horncastle like something you've stumbled upon by accident - which, if you're cycling or driving through the Lincolnshire Fens, you probably have. Empingham Reservoir is less of a destination and more of a proper working piece of infrastructure, supplying water to the region, but that doesn't stop it being rather atmospheric when you find yourself at its edge.

It's best approached on foot or by bike. The walking routes around the perimeter give you a sense of scale - the water stretches far enough that you feel properly out in the countryside rather than popping down to your local park. Birdwatchers do well here, especially in winter when wildfowl congregate. Fishermen come too. The light changes dramatically depending on the weather, and on a clear day it's genuinely striking in that understated English way.

It's not a place for young kids needing constant activity - they'll get bored after twenty minutes unless they're genuinely into wildlife. But if you're based at one of the nearby glamping spots like Longwool Shepherd Huts or Treetop Hideaways, it's a decent leg-stretch that breaks up the day. Same goes if you're at Woodhall Country Park or Jubilee Park further afield.

Free to wander, takes about an hour to get a feel for it. Go early morning or late afternoon when the light is better and the place has fewer visitors. It won't blow your mind, but it's the sort of quiet corner that makes a park holiday feel properly rural rather than touristy.