Park

The Lake District's nature reserves offer proper walking territory if you know where to look. This Cumbria reserve gives you access to fell and woodland without the tourist crush of somewhere like Windermere, though it's only a short drive away. You'll find yourself on decent trails through mixed woodland and open moorland, with views that stretch toward the surrounding peaks. It's the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think.

Walkers will get the most from it - bring proper boots because the ground gets boggy even after light rain. You're looking at anything from a gentle couple of hours to a full half-day depending on which paths you tackle. The reserve works well as a morning walk if you're staying at nearby sites like The Ashes Caravan Park or Kendal Camping and Caravanning Club Site, leaving your afternoon free for somewhere else. If you're based further toward Windermere Camping and Caravanning Club Site, it's worth the drive for a change of scenery.

Young kids might find it a bit samey after an hour - it's not the sort of place with obvious features or viewpoints every few minutes. Keen naturalists and serious walkers, though, will find plenty to occupy them. Check locally for any seasonal closures or access restrictions before you go. The lack of crowds is genuinely its best feature.