Foston Beck

Foston Beck is a modest freshwater lake sitting just outside Driffield in East Yorkshire, and it's the sort of place locals know about but tourists often miss. The water's calm, fringed with reeds and the occasional fishing platform, making it a proper retreat if you want a break from the flat farmland that surrounds it.

It's not a dramatic destination - no fancy visitor centre or manicured gardens. What you get instead is peace. Walkers come here to loop the perimeter, birdwatchers to spot coots and herons, and families occasionally pitch up for a quiet afternoon. There's a footpath that runs around much of the lake, which takes a good hour or so at a leisurely pace. The water itself is still and reflective, especially on calm days, and if you're stopping at one of the caravan parks nearby - Parkdean Resorts Barmston Beach or Seaside Caravan Park are both within a few miles - it's worth a half-day visit to break up your holiday routine.

Best visited in spring or early autumn when the light's gentle and you won't be battling crowds. Access appears to be free and unrestricted, though there's not much in the way of facilities, so bring water and a decent pair of shoes. It won't be the highlight of your trip, but it's a lovely hour if you're in the area and fancy something quieter than the busier attractions further afield. Driffield itself has a market town charm worth exploring while you're passing through.