Rossmere

The water at Rossmere sits still and grey most days, reflecting whatever weather has rolled in from across Cheshire. It's a proper working reservoir rather than a beauty spot, but that's precisely what makes it worth a visit if you're staying at Sycamore Farm Caravan Site or passing through Macclesfield. You can walk the perimeter - takes about an hour at a decent pace - and spot cormorants and the occasional heron if you're quiet about it. Fishermen know it well; the lake holds pike and perch, so expect to see a few rods out. The surrounding landscape is unremarkable moorland and coniferous plantings, which some find soothing and others find a bit bleak, depending on your tolerance for industrial-era water infrastructure.

Bring binoculars if you're into bird spotting. Otherwise, it's a solid leg-stretcher rather than a destination in itself. The walk suits adults and older children fine, though little ones might get restless once the loop becomes repetitive. Free to access, naturally - there's nowhere to pay and nothing to buy. Winter and early spring offer the clearest visibility across the water. Summer weekends draw the casual dog-walker crowd, which can take the edge off any sense of solitude you might be chasing. If you're combining a caravan holiday at Sycamore Farm with exploration of the wider area, Rossmere fills a morning slot competently enough. Don't expect drama or Instagram moments. Expect a functional Cheshire water feature that does what it says on the tin.