Pilsworth Fisheries

You won't find crowds at Pilsworth Fisheries, which is precisely why locals near Bury keep coming back. This is a proper working fishery - not a theme park masquerading as one - spread across peaceful water with mature banks and enough space to actually hear yourself think.

The lakes themselves are the draw. Anglers come for serious fishing, but non-fishing visitors can walk the perimeter and watch the action without paying green fees. The setting feels removed from the surrounding Lancashire landscape, with trees and vegetation creating something almost secretive. It's the kind of place where an hour turns into two because you've found a bench and lost track of time.

Families with young kids might find it a bit quiet - there's no playground energy here, no arcade noises. But older children who like nature and outdoor space, or teenagers keen on fishing, will appreciate the calm. It's the opposite of busy attractions; some people will find that refreshing, others will feel it's lacking.

If you're basing yourself at Dearden Wood, a short drive north, Pilsworth makes a decent morning stop before heading elsewhere. Don't expect facilities - bring a flask. Admission details aren't widely publicised online, so ring ahead to check current rules and whether non-anglers can access it freely.

Worth the detour? Only if you value peace and don't need entertainment laid on. For everything else, move on.