Riverside Gardens

The Irfon River winds through this reserve just outside Llangammarch Wells, and that's really what you're here for - a proper riverside walk with some decent birdwatching if you're into that sort of thing. The gardens themselves are modest, but the setting is lovely. You get a mix of managed beds and wild riverside habitat, which means it actually feels like somewhere real rather than a manicured park.

It's best for walkers and nature enthusiasts rather than families with small kids - there's not a playground or tearoom to speak of, just the river and the paths. Allow 45 minutes to an hour if you're taking it slowly and stopping to look at things. Go early morning for birds, or late afternoon when the light hits the water nicely.

Being right on the river's edge means it's genuinely attractive in all seasons. Spring's good for migrants, autumn for colour, but honestly even mid-summer it's peaceful when everywhere else is heaving. The reserve connects well with walks along the Irfon itself if you want to extend things.

If you're staying at Riverside Caravan & Camping Park - literally 0.2 miles away - this is an obvious morning outing before breakfast or a sunset stroll. Even from Irfon River Caravan Park two miles up the road it's worth the drive. It's free to access and feels genuinely unspoilt, which is rarer than you'd think in Mid Wales these days.