Knypersley Pool

Water and woodland combine at Knypersley Pool, a proper working reservoir that's become one of the better outdoor spots near Stoke-on-Trent. The lake sits in decent countryside, surrounded by walking trails and fishing platforms, with enough space that it never feels rammed even on weekends. You can walk the perimeter - takes about an hour at a leisurely pace - and there's a car park right at the entrance, which beats trudging half a mile with young ones in tow.

It's best for people who actually want to do something rather than just turn up and stare. Walkers will find the circuit straightforward and pleasant, fishermen clearly rate it (you'll see them posted up with their kit), and families with school-age kids won't find it boring - there's water to look at, birds to spot, the occasional drama when a heron shows up. The paths are manageable, though it can get muddy after rain.

There's a visitor centre and café on site, which helps. It's free to access and park, and you can spend as little as an hour or stretch it to half a day if you fancy looping back for refreshments. The water's not for swimming, but that's fine - it's a working reservoir, not a leisure facility.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks nearby - Sky View or Castle Camping are both under three miles away - it's an easy morning outing to break up the week. Not dramatic or famous, but it works. The kind of place you don't travel an hour out of your way for, but you'd be daft to ignore if you're already in the area.