High Hazels Park

Walking into High Hazels Park on a grey Sheffield afternoon, you're immediately struck by how quiet it is. This nature reserve sits right on the city's doorstep, yet feels properly removed from the urban sprawl. The reserve itself covers woodland and grassland - the kind of place where you can actually spot something interesting rather than just trudge around manicured paths.

It's worth allowing a good hour here, longer if you're keen on birds or butterflies. The woodland trails wind through decent-sized trees, and the open areas give you proper sightlines for spotting wildlife. Bring binoculars if you're that way inclined. Families with primary-age kids will get on fine, though there's not much in the way of facilities or play structures - this is a genuine nature reserve, not a park with bells and whistles.

The real appeal is for walkers and nature enthusiasts. You'll see the occasional serious birdwatcher here, which tells you it's the real deal. The wetland areas are particularly good if you're visiting during spring migration season.

If you're based at Waleswood Caravan & Camping Park or Rother Valley Country Park for a week, High Hazels works brilliantly as a morning visit before heading elsewhere. It's free to access and there are no entry times listed, so you can turn up when suits you. It won't blow your mind if you're expecting something dramatic, but it's exactly what it claims to be - a working nature reserve on the edge of Sheffield where real wildlife thrives.