Staddlestones Park

A proper wetland reserve that floods seasonally - that's what you're walking into at Staddlestones Park near Mells. The name comes from the old stone mushrooms that used to dot Somerset farms, protecting hay from damp, and there's something fitting about a place this damp being named after them.

You're here for the birds, mainly. Winter brings lapwing and snipe in serious numbers. Spring's better if you want to see warblers working the scrub. The paths wind through reed beds and open water, and the light on a clear day bounces off the whole thing rather beautifully. Allow an hour, maybe ninety minutes if you're genuinely birding.

It's not a destination that'll keep young kids entertained for long - there's no playground, no café, no amenities to speak of. But if you're a serious birdwatcher or you've got teenagers who can stomach a quiet walk without constant stimulus, it's genuinely worth your time. Walkers appreciate it because the paths are well-maintained even when the ground's boggy.

Park yourself at Glamping on the Hill just down the road and you've got a solid base. The reserve is free and accessible most days, though you'll want to check conditions in winter - heavy rain can make parts impassable. Go early morning for the best chance of spotting anything worthwhile. Mells is five minutes away if you need a coffee or supplies.