Lechmere Water

The water here is properly still on a calm day - a long, narrow stretch that sits just outside Wells and catches the light in a way that makes you understand why people bother with lakes at all. Lechmere Water is the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for, which is its main appeal.

It's a fishing lake, essentially, so don't expect facilities or crowds. You get a decent walk around the perimeter if the mood takes you, and the banks are gentle enough that families with young kids won't spend the whole time worried about slipping in. The real draw is the quiet. No cafes, no gift shops, just water and the occasional bird. Perfect if you're based at Cathedral View Glamping or Wells Touring Park and need a break from planning the day.

Historically it's connected to the area's water management - Wells has always taken its water seriously, being built on underground streams and springs. Lechmere Water fits into that story, though it's not the sort of place that demands hours of your time.

Allow an hour for a gentle walk, maybe two if you bring a picnic and just want to sit. Go early if you want solitude. Spring and autumn are less muggy than summer, and the light's better anyway. Worth the detour if you're touring the area and fancy something low-key between visiting Cheddar Gorge and the cathedral town itself.