Northwell Pool

A proper Norfolk water spot, Northwell Pool sits just outside Swaffham and gives you a genuine taste of what the Brecks landscape actually looks like when you're not mucking about at the seaside. It's a lake, straightforward as that - reed-fringed and home to the kind of birdlife that makes ornithologists genuinely excited. Bring binoculars if you're into that sort of thing, or just come for a walk round the perimeter if you're not.

It's the sort of place that rewards a morning visit when the light's decent and the water's calm. You won't find cafes or facilities here - this is nature without the infrastructure - so come prepared. Most people allow an hour to walk the edges and have a sit-down. Families with younger kids might find it a bit quiet; there's no playground or activity area, just the water and the birds and your own company.

Where it works best is as an add-on to a Breckland holiday. If you're staying at Breckland Meadows Caravan Park just down the road, this is an easy morning out before heading elsewhere. It's free, as far as anyone can tell, though you should check ahead if you're planning something specific. The larger Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa is further afield but worth basing yourself at if you want Northwell Pool alongside proper amenities. The pool itself isn't dramatic or famous - but that's rather the point. It's honest Norfolk, and sometimes that's exactly what you need.