Inns Lake

A shallow lake ringed by woodland, Inns Lake sits just outside Uxbridge and makes for a surprisingly pleasant afternoon if you're camping nearby at Highclere. There's a walking path that loops the water's edge - takes about 45 minutes at a leisurely pace - and you'll spot the usual suspects: mallards, herons if you're lucky, the occasional fisherman who hasn't moved since dawn.

It's the sort of place that works best in spring or early autumn when the weather's forgiving and you can actually sit by the water without freezing or melting. Summer weekends get a bit congested with families and dog walkers, which rather defeats the purpose of coming here for peace. Don't expect dramatic views or anything Instagram-worthy - this is gentle, understated English countryside, the kind you half-notice while lost in thought.

Walkers will get the most from it, especially if you're doing a longer route through the surrounding area. It's free and accessible, though there aren't obvious facilities - bring your own coffee. Worth a morning if you're based at Highclere, but I wouldn't drive more than 20 minutes specially. It's the sort of lake that's lovely because it's there, not because it's spectacular.