Ewhurst Pond

The water at Ewhurst Pond sits perfectly still most mornings, reflecting the sky like polished glass. It's a proper little spot tucked away in West Berkshire, just a short drive from Reading, and the kind of place locals know about but most visitors sail straight past.

You're looking at a small lake surrounded by woodland - nothing dramatic, but that's rather the appeal. Bring binoculars if you're into birdwatching; the pond draws quite a few species throughout the year. It's the sort of place where you'll see anglers tucking themselves into quiet corners on weekends, or families throwing bread to the ducks on a Sunday afternoon. A gentle walk around the water takes maybe twenty minutes, so don't expect a major expedition.

Families with young children will manage it easily, and it's worth combining with a stay at one of the nearby parks. Ravenswing Park sits only 3.9 miles away and gets top marks from visitors, making it a sensible base if you want a mix of outdoor activities without venturing too far. Bishops Green Farm Campsite, another 6 miles on, offers similar appeal.

The real strength here is peace and quiet. You won't find a café or visitor facilities - this isn't curated entertainment. What you get is a genuine bit of countryside within arm's reach of the town. Go early to dodge the afternoon crowd, and time it for late spring when the birdlife is most active. It's not the sort of place that'll dominate your holiday, but it's exactly the sort of place you'll find yourself returning to.