South Lagoon

The water at South Lagoon catches the light in a way that makes you forget you're just outside Hoddesdon. It's a proper freshwater lake - the sort of place where you can actually breathe properly after spending time in town.

What you get here is straightforward: a body of water that's popular with anglers and birdwatchers in equal measure. Bring binoculars if you're into that sort of thing. The walking is gentle, the kind where you can chat without gasping, and on a clear day the reflections are genuinely worth stopping for. It's not dramatic or showy - there are no clifftop views or dramatic vistas - but that's rather the point.

Families with young kids will get a decent walk in without anyone complaining their legs hurt halfway through. Serious walkers might find it a touch tame as a main event, though it works brilliantly as a morning stroll if you're staying at Hertford Camping and Caravanning Club Site just down the road.

The fishing community takes it seriously, so early mornings are quieter if crowds bother you. There's a real working landscape feel to it - this isn't a manicured park with visitor facilities, it's a proper working lake. Bring a packed lunch if you're settling in for a few hours. Free to access, naturally.

Worth the detour if you're in Hertfordshire looking for somewhere low-key to stretch your legs and clear your head. Don't come expecting Instagram moments - come for peace.