Fulbourn Fen

The fen stretches out flat and wide, all reedy wetland that feels a world away from Cambridge despite being barely twenty minutes' drive east. Fulbourn Fen is a nature reserve run by the Wildlife Trust, and it's the sort of place where you actually notice the birds - marsh harriers hunting overhead, reed warblers making an absolute racket in summer, the occasional bittern if you're lucky and patient. The boardwalk takes you out into the wetland proper, so you're not trudging through bog in your trainers. It's genuinely accessible, which matters when you're trying to keep kids interested.

Walkers and birdwatchers will get the most from it, to be honest. If you're after a stroll with guaranteed wildlife spotting and a proper sense of leaving the city behind, this delivers. An hour is plenty unless you're seriously into birding, in which case you could happily spend half the day here with binoculars. Spring and early summer are best - the birds are vocal and active, and the dragonflies are exceptional. Winter's quieter but fine if you just want some air and space.

It's free to visit, which is always welcome. The nearest facilities are back in Cambridge, so don't expect a café on site. If you're staying at somewhere like HappenOak Treehouse or Piggles Retreat nearby, this makes a proper morning outing before heading back for lunch. It won't hold everyone's attention for hours, but it's worth the detour if you like your nature unmanicured and your air a bit marshy.