Franklin Park

Franklin Park sits on the eastern edge of Leicester and does exactly what it sets out to do - gives you a proper slice of countryside without needing to drive an hour out of the city. It's a nature reserve, so think woodland walks, open grassland, and the kind of place where you'll actually spot wildlife if you're quiet about it.

The park works well for a half-day outing if you're staying at nearby Fortway Farm Leisure & Fishery. A couple of hours is enough to get round the main trails without it feeling rushed. Families with primary-age kids will find enough to keep them interested - there's water to look at, trees to explore, and room to burn off some energy. Serious nature enthusiasts might want longer though; birders especially tend to camp here for hours with binoculars.

Walking is the main activity here. The paths are generally well-maintained, though they can get muddy after rain. Spring and early summer are best - that's when the birds are most active and the wildflowers actually make the place look like something other than just green fields.

It's free to visit, which is worth knowing. No visitor centre, no car park fees, no faffing about. Just turn up and walk. Best to go midweek if you can - weekends bring enough joggers and dog-walkers to send most birds running for cover. Allow at least two hours if you want to see anything worthwhile.