Parking Boddingdon Reservoir

The water's usually calm here, which is precisely why Boddingdon Reservoir works so well if you've had enough of manicured gardens and visitor centres. It's a proper working reservoir serving Daventry and the surrounding area, but what makes it worth the trip from Coleman's Hill Campsite - just a mile away - is the sheer quietness of it all.

You get a decent circular walk around the perimeter, and the birdwatching is genuinely good. Bring binoculars and you'll spot cormorants, grebes, and various ducks depending on the season. The paths are straightforward, nothing too taxing, though they can get muddy after rain so proper footwear matters. It's the kind of place where you might see a handful of other people on a weekend, which feels increasingly rare.

This works best for walkers and anyone serious about spotting birds rather than families after a quick hour out. If your kids need playgrounds and ice cream, look elsewhere. But if you want a genuine nature reserve without the crowds you'd find at more famous spots, this delivers. There's something grounding about standing beside still water watching the light change across the surface.

Park at the designated area and you're away within minutes. Allow two to three hours for a proper loop. Being this close to Coleman's Hill makes it ideal if you're camping locally - a morning walk before breakfast without needing to drive anywhere.