Lake Vrnwy Scupyure Park

The reservoir itself dominates the landscape around Welshpool - a vast expanse of water that feels properly remote despite being only minutes from town. Lake Vrnwy Sculpture Park weaves art installations through the woodland and lakeside, which sounds a bit twee until you're actually walking amongst them and the scale of the place becomes apparent. You're looking at serious pieces here, not garden centre tat.

The walk takes you through mixed woodland with the water constantly visible, and the sculptures appear unexpectedly - some integrated into the trees, others standing stark against the water. It's good for families who can manage a couple of hours on their feet, though younger children might lose interest if they're not into art. Walkers will appreciate the terrain and the views across the water towards the Welsh hills beyond.

Admission appears to be free, which makes it worth the drive from Welshpool even for a casual afternoon. Allow two to three hours if you're actually looking at the installations rather than just tramping through. The best time is late morning when the light's decent but before it gets busy - though to be honest, it rarely feels crowded.

If you're based at Cae Nant Glamping or Pandy Camping, both within four miles, this slots perfectly into a Mid Wales break alongside proper walking country. It's the sort of place that divides opinion - some find it pretentious, others reckon it justifies the woodland walk on its own merits.