Loughanesly

The water at Loughanesly sits calm most days, reflecting whatever sky you've got - which in Newry can be moody grey or startling blue. It's a modest lake without the drama of some of the Mourne highlights, but that's rather the point. You come here to walk, to sit on the bank with a flask, to let the shoulders drop.

The lake itself is small enough that you can walk round it in under an hour, which suits families with young kids or anyone after a gentle loop rather than a proper expedition. The walking is straightforward, no scrambling, just good paths and water views. Birdwatchers get something out of it - the quiet attracts waterfowl - and photographers find decent light, especially in the golden hour when the reflections work properly.

It's free, naturally, and there's no formal opening hours business. You just turn up. The nearest town is Newry, which gives you a proper base with shops and pubs if you're staying locally. If you're bunking down at Hilltop Hideaway - that delightful pod spot 3 miles away - Loughanesly makes an easy morning ramble before heading back for the hot tub. It won't occupy your whole day, but it fills an hour or two without fuss, and there's something to be said for attractions that don't demand much of you.