Hedgecourt Lake

The water sits still and dark between the trees, ringed by woodland that feels properly removed from the world despite being barely five miles from Lingfield. Hedgecourt Lake is a working fishery - this isn't a swimming spot or a manicured beauty, it's serious fishing territory, and that's exactly what makes it worth knowing about.

If you're staying at Hook Farm Campsite or Worth Forest Glamping, this is your escape when you need to get out of the accommodation bubble without driving far. The walk around the lake takes the best part of an hour, depending on how often you stop. The path winds through beech and birch, and on a quiet morning you'll have the whole thing to yourself - just you, the water, and whatever's swimming in it.

Families with older kids will find it decent enough. The woodland's genuinely attractive and there's something about water that keeps them entertained, though if your lot demand constant stimulation, they might get restless after 45 minutes. Walkers and anglers obviously get more from it. Bring binoculars if you're into birds; kingfishers turn up here.

The lake is free to walk around, which is proper value. Go early in the day if you want peace - weekends can bring a few anglers and locals. Spring's lovely, when the trees are just coming in, though autumn's got more drama with the light.