Fairlands Valley Park

The lakes at Fairlands Valley Park are proper good for a casual afternoon if you're based in or around Hitchin. You've got water on two sides - Jacksons Lake and Brickyard Lake - which means plenty of spots to sit and watch the wildlife without feeling boxed in. The walking routes are straightforward enough, threading between the water and open grassland, and the paths are well-maintained underfoot.

Birds are the main draw here. Bring binoculars if you're serious about it; the nature reserve side of things means you'll spot things beyond the usual park pigeons. There's enough space that you won't feel crowded even on a decent day, and families with younger kids will find the routes manageable without needing an actual expedition.

If you're staying at Almshoe Glamping or Jacks Hill Caravans - both within three miles - this is exactly the sort of place to burn an hour or two between breakfast and lunch. It's free to wander, no admission fee nonsense, which is refreshing. You could easily spend longer if you're into your wildlife photography or just need peace and quiet. The park connects reasonably well to Hitchin town centre if you want a coffee afterwards, though the park itself is fairly rural. Allow a couple of hours if you're walking both lakes, or less if you just fancy a circuit of one.