Fairfield

The reserve sprawls across Somerset's quieter countryside, a proper breath of fresh air if you're tired of the honeypot attractions. You're looking at wetland and woodland habitat - the kind of place where you actually see things rather than just walk past a plaque. Dragonflies, water voles, assorted birdlife. On a decent day it's genuinely peaceful.

Walkers will find the most value here. The paths are straightforward enough, nothing that requires proper hiking boots, but you need a couple of hours to do it justice rather than a quick half-hour stroll. Families with young kids might manage thirty minutes before someone asks if they can go home. Birdwatchers and wildlife photographers should block off a morning - especially spring and early summer when things are actually moving about.

It's free, which helps. No visitor centre that I'm aware of, so bring decent footwear because the ground gets properly boggy after rain. Check the weather before you go - there's bugger all shelter if you get caught in a downpour.

Castle Cary's just up the road if you need supplies or want lunch somewhere, though the town itself is fairly modest. What works well is pairing this with one of the nearby glamping spots - Hadspen's only 1.2 miles away and the ratings suggest it's decent enough. You get the nature reserve in the morning, then proper food and bed sorted by evening. Long Hazel Park's another reasonable option at 4.7 miles if you're after standard caravan pitches instead.