Ross Vegas Park

The wetland reserve just outside Ross-on-Wye is a proper treat if you're into birds and big skies. What you're looking at is a patchwork of reed beds, open water, and grazing meadows - the kind of landscape that draws in serious twitchers alongside families who just fancy a walk without the crowds. You won't find much here in terms of facilities or interpretation boards, which is either refreshing or frustrating depending on your mood. Bring binoculars. Bring a bird book if you're not confident with identification. The paths are straightforward enough, though it can get boggy after rain, so decent boots are sensible.

For most visitors, allow a couple of hours max. This isn't a destination that'll keep you occupied all day - it's a solid add-on to a Ross-on-Wye break rather than the main event. Winter and early spring tend to be best for spotting, when overwintering ducks and waders are around. Summer can feel a bit quiet, if you're honest.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - White House on Wye Glamping or Tresseck Campsite are both within easy reach - this makes a pleasant morning outing before heading into town for lunch. It works well for walkers and keen ornithologists. Not ideal if you've got restless young children expecting playgrounds and visitor centres. The peace and open space are exactly what draw people here, and that's genuinely the point.