St Davids Park

The reserve sits just outside Northampton, a proper slice of working countryside that doesn't shout about itself. What you get is a genuine nature reserve - wetland, grassland, and woodland all mixed together, with a handful of walking trails that take anywhere from half an hour to a couple of hours depending on which way you fancy going.

It's the kind of place where birdwatchers actually know what they're doing, and where you'll spot something different depending on the season. Spring brings the migrants, summer's thick with dragonflies over the water, autumn gets a bit moody and atmospheric. Winter's quieter but honestly that's when it feels most like your own discovery.

Families with young kids will manage a quick loop round the main pond without complaint, though there's not a playground or café, so pack a thermos. Serious walkers and photographers will easily spend half a day here. The paths aren't dramatic - this isn't moorland - but they're well-kept and actually peaceful, which is the whole point.

Since you're staying at one of the glamping spots nearby - Moon Valley is barely two miles away - it's an obvious morning visit before you head into Northampton proper. Lakeview and Steepleton Lodge are a bit further out but still close enough for an easy drive. Go early, especially in summer, and you'll have the place nearly to yourself. Bring binoculars. You might actually use them.