Jaw Reservoir

Water that's far too cold to swim in, even on a scorching July day. Jaw Reservoir sits in the Scottish Lowlands near Stirling, a proper working water supply that's managed to stay quietly beautiful without the crowds you'd find at Loch Lomond. The walk around it is straightforward - nothing dramatic, but the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think. Moorland slopes down to the water's edge, and on a clear day the views open up across the hills beyond.

It's best for walkers and photographers rather than families after a splash about. The path is manageable for anyone with decent boots, and you're looking at a couple of hours for a decent circuit depending on how much time you want to spend staring at the water. Spring and early autumn hit that sweet spot - dry underfoot but not swamped with midges like summer can be.

Glasgow's close enough for a day trip from the city, and if you're staying at The WHW Hotel & Campsite just outside Stirling, this works as a morning outing before heading elsewhere. It's the kind of place that justifies itself on a calm day when the light's right, but won't wow you in rain and wind. Free to visit, and you can show up whenever. Worth an afternoon if you're in the area and after something low-key - don't make it your main event.