Padworth Common

You're driving through West Berkshire and suddenly the landscape opens up - Padworth Common is a proper breath of fresh air on the edge of Reading's urban sprawl. It's a nature reserve that doesn't shout about itself, which is partly the appeal. The common itself is a mix of heathland and woodland, with walking paths that meander through without the crowds you'd get at more famous reserves.

What you'll actually find here are open stretches of heather and gorse, especially striking in late summer when everything's blooming purple and golden. There are ponds dotted about that attract dragonflies, newts, and assorted water birds if you're into that sort of thing. The woodland sections are quiet and cool even on warm days.

Walkers and nature photographers get the most from it. The paths are easy enough for families, though young kids might find it a bit samey after half an hour unless they're dead keen on spotting insects. Bird watchers should bring binoculars - you'll see common species reliably enough. It's free to access, which counts for something.

The real value is as a proper escape when you're staying at Ravenswing Park just down the road. Rather than driving miles, you can slip over here for an hour's ramble and genuinely feel like you've left the suburbs behind. It won't blow your mind, but it's the sort of place that makes a park holiday feel less hemmed in. Go early morning if possible - the light is better and you'll have the place to yourself.