Roswell Pits

The flooded gravel pits just east of Ely are exactly the sort of place you'd walk past without thinking twice about - unless you happen to know they've become a proper wildlife hotspot. Roswell Pits are a working nature reserve where the real draw is birdwatching, especially during migration seasons when you might spot something decent through the viewing areas.

It's a flat, accessible walk around the water's edge, which makes it ideal for families who don't fancy scrambling up hills, or for anyone with mobility concerns. The paths aren't complicated, though they can be muddy after rain - wellies a smart call. You're looking at maybe an hour if you're just ambling and watching ducks, longer if you're serious about your optics and waiting for rarer visitors to show themselves.

Worth timing your visit for early morning or late afternoon when the light's better and birds are most active. Spring and autumn are peak times, though winter brings its own interest if you're into that sort of thing.

If you're based at Hatters Meadows or Heatherbield Lodge, both just up the road, this works nicely as a morning outing before heading into Ely itself for lunch. It's free and low-key, which means it never feels rammed even when it is busy - you'll almost certainly have quiet stretches to yourself. Don't expect grand vistas or major facilities, but if you're after genuine nature watching without the crowds, it delivers.