Olton Mere

A shallow lake surrounded by grassland and scrub, Olton Mere sits just outside Coventry and attracts serious birdwatchers rather than casual day-trippers. The water itself is unremarkable to look at, but the visiting species - particularly in winter - make it worth the effort if you've got binoculars and patience.

You won't find facilities here. There's a rough path around the perimeter, mostly flat, taking roughly forty minutes depending on how often you stop to scan the reeds. In colder months, you might spot wigeon, pochard, or if you're lucky, something rarer. Summer brings warblers and the usual breeding birds, but it's a quieter affair.

Families with young children will likely find it dull within twenty minutes. Walkers will appreciate the circuit without getting excited about it. Birders, though - this is their sort of spot. Serious ornithologists make the trip from across the Midlands, particularly November through March when numbers peak.

It's free and open year-round, accessible from Coventry's outskirts. If you're based at Somers Wood Caravan Park or Gate Farm just down the road, it's a decent half-morning addition to your holiday without being a highlight. Bring a bird guide and reasonable optics, or leave disappointed. Weather matters too - windy days push birds into the far bank where you won't see them.