South Milford Park

South Milford Park sits just outside Selby in North Yorkshire, a proper little nature reserve that punches above its weight. You're looking at wet woodland, grassland, and ponds - the sort of place where you actually spot things rather than just walk past trees hoping something happens.

The reserve works best for keen birdwatchers and anyone who enjoys a gentle woodland walk without the crowds. Spring brings migrants, winter's good for wildfowl, and there's always something moving about in the undergrowth if you're patient enough. Families won't find it thrilling for hours on end - it's more of a two-hour job - but if your kids are into nature hunts, there's genuine scope for spotting newts and dragonflies around the pond areas.

Access is straightforward and free, which helps. Allow a couple of hours to explore the main paths properly without rushing. Early morning visits are your best bet for wildlife spotting; the birds are far more active before the foot traffic builds up.

If you're basing yourself at either York South Ltd or Cawood Park, South Milford makes an easy addition to your itinerary. Both holiday parks sit within easy driving distance, so you could combine it with a trip into York or a walk along some of the better-known trails nearby. It won't be the highlight of your break, but it's a solid stop-off if you're already in the area and fancy something low-key.