Hanley Park

The lake at Hanley Park is the main draw, and on a decent day it's genuinely pleasant for a walk. You get proper water views - swans, ducks, the occasional fisherman - and the paths wind around nicely without being too demanding. There's woodland too, which breaks up the open areas and keeps things interesting.

It's the sort of place that works well for families with younger kids or anyone after a straightforward hour's ramble near Stoke-on-Trent. The paths are well-maintained and reasonably flat, so pushchairs aren't a drama. Dog walkers clearly love it here - there's always someone with a spaniel or two. If you're into birdwatching, bring binoculars; the reserve attracts decent numbers of waterfowl, particularly in winter and spring.

Admission is free, which is worth knowing if you're watching the pennies. Allow an hour to ninety minutes depending on how many stops you make for photos or to watch the water. The best time to visit is early morning when it's quieter, or late afternoon when the light's softer.

Staying at one of the nearby parks - Luzlow Caravan Site or Glamping at Holly Grove Farm are both within a few miles - makes Hanley Park a natural leg of a broader Staffordshire break. It's not a destination in itself, but it slots in well as a spot to stretch your legs between other activities. Stone Wall Farm CL is another option if you want somewhere smaller and more low-key.