RSPB Middleton Lakes

You'll drive past Atherstone and into fairly ordinary Warwickshire countryside before realizing you've stumbled upon one of the region's best-kept birding spots. RSPB Middleton Lakes is a proper working reserve - not some manicured visitor center, but actual habitat where the birds matter more than the facilities.

The reserve comprises old quarry lakes surrounded by woodland and scrub, and it works as a migration corridor that brings genuinely rare sightings. Even if you're not a twitcher, there's something oddly satisfying about standing on the viewing platform watching a great crested grebe surface or a kingfisher dart across the water. Bring binoculars; you'll kick yourself if you don't.

The walking loop takes roughly an hour at a comfortable pace, with multiple hides positioned along the route. It's flat and accessible, though the paths get a bit muddy after rain. Families with younger children manage fine, though they'll need patience - standing still watching birds isn't everyone's idea of fun. Serious birdwatchers should allow longer, especially during spring and autumn migration.

If you're camping at Nightingales Rustic Camping just down the road, this makes an excellent morning outing. Admission appears free, though parking might have a small charge. Visit early - you'll see more birds and avoid the school groups.

It's not flashy, but if you care about wildlife at all, it's well worth the detour off the main roads.