Sconce and Devon Park

The River Devon cuts through Sconce and Devon Park like a ribbon of green reason to leave Newark behind for an afternoon. This nature reserve sits quietly on the outskirts of town, the sort of place locals know but visitors miss entirely if they're not looking. You're walking through riverside meadows here, watching for kingfishers and the usual suspects - mallards, herons, the occasional roe deer if you're lucky and quiet enough.

It's proper walking territory. The paths wind along the water's edge and back through scrubland, nothing too demanding but enough to feel like you've actually left civilisation. Allow two to three hours if you want to do it justice without rushing. The reserve works best for people who like their nature unmanicured - no gift shop, no cafe, no announcements. Just the river, the birds, and occasionally the sound of the A1.

Walkers and birdwatchers will get the most from it. Families with young kids might find the novelty wears off within an hour unless you're serious about spotting wildlife. Summer's the best bet, when the meadows are alive and the light stays long.

Stay at one of the glamping spots nearby - BrackenXcapes or Witham Grange are within five miles - and you've got a proper base for exploring the area. Sconce Park itself won't eat up your whole day, but paired with a wander round Newark's town centre or the River Trent walks, it's a solid morning out. Honest, unglamorous, exactly what you'd hope a local nature reserve would be.