Steamills Lake

The water at Steamills Lake sits properly still most days, reflecting the woodland that crowds in on three sides. It's a modest reservoir near Mitcheldean, the kind of place locals know and visitors often miss entirely. You'll find it useful if you're staying at Broadmeadow Caravan Park and need a half-day wander - it's only 6 miles away, which makes it ideal for a morning or late afternoon visit without faff.

The lake itself is unremarkable in terms of size, but that's rather the point. This isn't a spectacle laid on for tourists. There's a footpath running round most of the perimeter, and the walking is gentle enough for mixed-ability groups, though nothing that'll challenge serious hikers. The main appeal is the quiet. You might spot fishermen, or just the occasional walker taking the same route you are.

Who gets most from it? Families with younger kids who need a short leg-stretch, or anyone keen on birdwatching - the woodland draws redstarts and nuthatches. It's free to visit, and you can do the circuit in 45 minutes to an hour without rushing. Don't expect facilities beyond a car park; bring a packed lunch if you're making an afternoon of it.

Is it worth a special journey? Probably not. Is it worth the short drive from your caravan to kill a couple of hours? Absolutely. It's the sort of local water that keeps you sane mid-holiday.