Penguin

The lake at Penguin, just outside Burford, is a proper surprise if you're touring the Cotswolds. It's a modest body of water, nothing dramatic, but it's the sort of place that works surprisingly well if you've got a caravan parked at one of the nearby sites like Burford Caravan Club or Wysdom Touring Park.

What you get is a quiet spot for a walk and a bit of birdwatching. The water itself draws waterfowl - hence the name, presumably, though you're more likely to see ducks and geese than penguins. It's the kind of place where you can stretch your legs for half an hour without having to drive anywhere, which counts for something when you're mid-holiday.

Families with young children will get a bit out of it - there's something engaging about watching birds on water, and it breaks up a day of Cotswold villages nicely. Keen walkers might find it a touch underwhelming, though. The setting is pleasant enough without being memorable. It's not one to plan a trip around, really.

Since the nearest town is Burford - which has proper shops, decent pubs, and that lovely high street - you'll likely wander the lake as part of a broader loop rather than making it your destination. If you're staying at one of the caravan parks, it's convenient enough to pop over for twenty minutes. Check locally for any access restrictions or seasonal closures before you go.