Mermaid Pond

The water here is surprisingly clear, considering it's basically a flooded quarry near Crewkerne. Mermaid Pond sits quietly off the beaten track, and locals seem to know about it far more than visitors do. You'll find a small body of water ringed by trees, the kind of place where you can actually hear birdsong without any background noise pollution.

It's decent for a gentle walk around the perimeter, maybe forty minutes or so if you're not in a rush. The banks are relatively accessible, though you'll want proper shoes - it gets muddy after rain. Families with young kids will manage fine, though there's not a heap to actually do once you've walked around it. If you're the type who simply enjoys a bit of peace and quiet by water with decent woodland vibes, you'll appreciate it. History enthusiasts might find the quarry origins interesting enough, but don't expect interpretation boards or any real information.

There's no entrance fee and no set opening hours that I'm aware of - it's one of those places you just turn up to. Best visited in spring or early summer when the trees are proper lush and there's actual bird activity. Stuck out here beyond Crewkerne, it works well as a break during a longer walk or as part of a broader ramble through the Dorset countryside. If you're camping at Wytch Wood or The Dorset Hideaway nearby, it's absolutely worth the short drive over for a quiet hour. Don't expect facilities or crowds - that's rather the point.