Springfield Mere Countryside

Water and woodland in equal measure - that's what you get at Springfield Mere, a proper working nature reserve just outside Shrewsbury. The lake itself is the main draw, fringed with reeds and alive with waterfowl. Bring binoculars and you'll spot great crested grebes, cormorants, and if you're lucky, the odd kingfisher flashing past. The walking trails loop around the water's edge and push into the surrounding woodland, so you're never more than a few minutes from decent views. It's not a massive place - allow two to three hours if you're taking it leisurely - but it's exactly the sort of spot that rewards patience. Serious birdwatchers will find plenty to occupy them; families with young children might feel it's a bit thin on the ground after an hour unless they're genuinely keen on spotting things with wings. Spring and autumn migrations are the real pull here. Winter brings different species entirely. The reserve is free to access and operates on an honour system for car parking. If you're staying at either Condover Park or Ebury Hill - both solid caravan sites within a couple of miles - Springfield Mere makes for an easy half-day expedition that won't cost you anything. Bring a packed lunch, sit by the water, and enjoy the quiet. There's something rather meditative about watching the reeds move in the wind and waiting to see what appears. No café or facilities to speak of, so come prepared.